Australia’s recent ban on live animal exports has been met with both support and criticism from the public. According to a new study from the Australian National University, the move could actually result in a net loss of income for the country.

The study, conducted by researchers from the ANU Center for International Economics, found that while the ban could lead to improved animal welfare, it could also lead to a net loss of between $1.1 and $1.3 billion for the Australian economy over the next five years. This is due to the large number of jobs that rely on the live animal export industry, as well as the costs associated with replacing the lost income.

The researchers called for an evidence-based approach to the issue, noting that the decision to ban live animal exports must take into account the broader economic implications of the move. “The key message is that decisions on animal welfare should be based on evidence rather than emotion,” the researchers said.

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source: Phys.org