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Medicine innovations face barriers
IFAH report highlights obstacles to veterinary medicine.

A recent report from the International Federation for Animal Health (IFAH) has reported that European regulatory processes are proving a barrier to innovation when it comes to developing new veterinary medicines.

The IFAH represents the manufacturers of veterinary medicines and its report, called Benchmarking the Competitiveness of the Global Animal Health Industry, presents the results of a survey of animal health companies conducted last year.

A key point of concern from the European companies is the lack of progress in harmonising regulatory processes since the last survey was carried out in 2006. The report points towards "serious disquiet with the current regulatory frameworks" and a number of issues were cited as "serious barriers" to continued innovation and the progress of industry in the EU.

Managing director of IFAH, Declan O'Brien, said: "The costs associated with adhering to the regulatory processes are impacting the animal health industry in Europe with the direct result that there is less innovation and fewer new products in the pipeline."

He added: "A harmonised approach through a true single EU market with reduced administrative burden via the 1-1-1- concept [one dossier, one European scientific assessment, one decision for a marketing authorisation] is the only solution to ensuring the competitiveness of the animal health industry in Europe."

Download the full report here.


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RCVS announces 1CPD app update

News Story 1
 The RCVS has announced a new version of its 1CPD mobile app, with enhanced features for veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to record their continuing professional development.

The mobile app includes a new 'what would you like to do?' shortcut for frequent tasks, a notification badge, and the ability to scan a QR code from the home screen to easily record an activity.

Users will be prompted to update the app from the App Store or Google Play the next time they log in. For more information, visit RCVS.org.uk 

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Nominations open for RCVS and VN Council elections

The nomination period for the 2026 RCVS Council and VN Council elections is now open, with three veterinary surgeon seats and two veterinary nurse seats available.

Prospective candidates can download an information pack and nomination form from the RCVS website. Individuals can nominate themselves for the elections, with the results to be announced in the spring.

Clare Paget, the recently appointed RCVS Registrar and elections returning officer, said: "If you want to play your part in influencing and moulding how the professions are regulated, and making key decisions on matters of great importance to your peers, the public and animal health and welfare, please consider standing for RCVS Council or VN Council next year."

Nominations close at 5pm on Saturday, 31 January 2026.