04/06/2026 (Agence Europe) – On Thursday 4 June, the European Commission decided to refer France to the Court of Justice of the European Union over restrictions imposed on veterinary companies and veterinarians, which it considers contrary to EU rules on freedom of establishment and the free movement of services for veterinary companies and veterinarians. French rules require the majority of shares in veterinary companies be held by veterinarians practising within the company and that veterinary shareholders be present in each establishment, at least part-time, according to a press release. These requirements effectively limit the number of establishments and veterinary companies that veterinarians may operate, as well as the way in which they can organise their work and their company. France also prohibits veterinarians established in other Member States from providing temporary and occasional services on its territory. (SP)