Main content of the EUDR
The EUDR was first introduced in November 11, with the aim of preventing products linked to deforestation and forest degradation from entering the EU market. The regulations include:
- Applicable product categories: Palm oil, beef, timber, coffee, cocoa, rubber, soybeans and processed products such as chocolate, tires, or furniture.
- Request for appraisal: Companies must demonstrate that their products are not linked to deforestation after 2020, and trace the product back to the land where it was produced.
The law comes into effect in June 6 and was originally supposed to be implemented by the end of 2023 for large companies and mid-2024 for small and medium-sized enterprises. However, the new agreement will push the implementation dates to December 2025 and June 12, respectively.
Proposal to relax law rejected
The European Parliament, led by European People's Party (EPP), suggested:
- Create a category of “non-risk” countries, exempting them from most EUDR requirements.
- Extend the period of suspension of execution to two years.
- Exempt traders from liability, only requiring the importing company to prove that the product is not related to deforestation.
However, these proposals were not accepted. The EU Council affirmed:
“The targeted amendments will not change the content of the existing regulation, which aims to reduce the EU's contribution to global deforestation.”
Feedback from stakeholders
EU Commission said the postponement of implementation is a balanced solution to support the parties involved in the smooth implementation and ensure the effectiveness of the EUDR.
Mrs. Jessika Roswall, Commissioner for the Environment, said:
“The additional 12 months are needed for all businesses, farmers and international partners to adapt to the Anti-Deforestation Regulation. This is a step in the right direction, providing certainty for businesses.”
However, Ms. Christine Schneider from the EPP expressed disappointment that the proposal for a “risk-free” portfolio was not adopted:
“We had hoped that some of the issues would be directly addressed in the legislation, but the Council refused.”
Meaning of EUDR
The Anti-Deforestation Regulation is considered one of the EU's major steps forward in:
- Reducing Contribution to Global Deforestation and forest degradation.
- Promoting sustainable production through strict rules.
- Increasing supply chain transparency, ensuring product traceability.
Despite implementation challenges, the law affirms the EU's determination to tackle the environmental crisis and protect global forest resources.
Conclusion
The EU’s rejection of the proposed relaxation of the law and the 12-month delay in its implementation represent a cautious approach, balancing feasibility and sustainability objectives. The EUDR continues to play an important role in reducing deforestation and promoting environmentally responsible business practices.