Pile of timber background. Free public domain CC0 photo.
From 30th December 2025, all companies exporting to the EU will need to comply with new legislation, The European Union's Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). This law aims to minimize the EU's contribution to global deforestation and forest degradation. This regulation requires businesses to ensure that certain commodities and products placed on or exported from the EU market are not produced on land that was subject to deforestation after December 31, 2020.
Key Commodities and Products Covered:
The EUDR applies to the following commodities and their derived products:
- Cattle
- Cocoa
- Coffee
- Oil palm
- Rubber
- Soya
- Wood
This includes items such as beef, chocolate, furniture, and other products derived from these commodities.
Implementation Timeline:
The EUDR was adopted on May 31, 2023, and officially entered into force on June 29, 2023. However, its application is phased to allow businesses adequate time to comply:
- December 30, 2025: The regulation becomes applicable to large and medium-sized enterprises.
- June 30, 2026: The regulation extends to small and micro-enterprises.
This phased approach ensures that companies of varying sizes can implement the necessary measures to meet EUDR requirements effectively.
Practical Steps for UK-Based Suppliers:
- Assess Your Product Portfolio:
- Identify if your products contain any of the commodities listed above.
- Determine the origin of these commodities and the date of production to ensure they are not linked to deforestation post-December 31, 2020
- Conduct Due Diligence:
- Implement robust due diligence systems to trace the supply chain of the commodities.
- Collect detailed information, including the geographic coordinates of the land where the commodities were produced.
- Ensure compliance with the legal standards of the country of origin.
- Engage with Suppliers:
- Communicate EUDR requirements to your suppliers and collaborate to obtain necessary documentation.
- Encourage suppliers to adopt sustainable practices and provide evidence of compliance.
- Maintain Records:
- Keep comprehensive records of due diligence efforts, supplier communications, and compliance documentation.
- Be prepared for potential audits or requests for information from EU authorities.
- Stay Informed:
- Regularly monitor updates on EUDR guidelines and implementation procedures.
- Participate in industry forums and training sessions to stay abreast of best practices.
Handy Hints:
- Utilize Technology: Leverage digital tools and platforms that assist in supply chain mapping and monitoring.
- Collaborate: Join industry associations or coalitions focused on sustainable sourcing to share knowledge and resources.
- Consult Experts: Seek guidance from legal and environmental consultants specializing in EUDR compliance.
By proactively implementing these steps, UK-based suppliers can ensure compliance with the EUDR and continue to access the EU market without disruptions.
If BHETA members have specific questions about the EUDR legislation, then you can take advantage of our free service:
