The report informs the Parliament and the Council about the compliance with this ban by economic operators in the EU and the impacts of the animal testing and marketing bans.

It also indicates continued progress in the development, validation and legal acceptance of methods alternative to animal testing.

However, some challenges still remain in the most complex toxicological areas, where more research is needed.

Next steps

The Commission will remain engaged in the development, validation and legal acceptance of methods alternative to animal testing through ongoing research projects.

The Commission periodically has to report to the Parliament and to the Council on the topic.