Reindeer husbandry

Reindeer husbandry has long been an integral part of Nordic and Arctic culture. It contributes to the bioeconomy, the food industry, tourism, and cultural heritage – playing a particularly central role in Sámi society and identity.

Despite its deep roots, the future of reindeer husbandry cannot be taken for granted. The sector faces significant challenges, including land-use changes, increasing predator pressure, and the accelerating impacts of climate change. While these issues are shared across borders, the organisational structures and governance of reindeer husbandry differ between the Nordic countries, making collaboration all the more crucial.

To address these challenges, a broad approach is needed—one that brings together traditional knowledge, scientific research, and sound policy. In this context, cross-border cooperation and continuous dialogue between government authorities and the reindeer husbandry sector are vital.

Within the framework of the Nordic Joint Committee for Agricultural and Food Research (NKJ), activities related to reindeer husbandry are initiated by the Nordic Reindeer Committee, with support from the NKJ secretariat. The committee includes one representative each from Finland, Norway, and Sweden.

This cooperation is formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Rural Affairs and Infrastructure in Sweden, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry in Finland, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food in Norway. The aim is to strengthen and promote sustainable and coordinated development of reindeer husbandry across the Nordic region.