EUDR - EU Deforestation-free Regulation

In 2013, the EU introduced the Timber Regulation (EUTR). This regulation imposes requirements on EU companies which import timber products. The regulation made it illegal to import and sell illegally harvested timber or products containing illegally harvested timber. This regulation is now repealed and replaced by the EU Deforestation-free Regulation (EUDR), which is an EU regulation that aims to ensure responsible production of raw materials and products which might contribute to global deforestation.

The product groups covered by the regulation are: wood products (wood and/or wood products), soya, palm oil, cocoa, natural rubber, cattle and coffee. Manufacturers, importers and distributors must ensure that their products comply with applicable legislation in the country of origin e.g. occupational health and safety regulations and environmental legislation.

To document compliance with the EUDR, companies must prepare and submit a due diligence statement via the EU system TRACES.

Who is subject to this regulation?

Any importer or distributor on the European market importing/producing/distributing/exporting these product groups: wood products (wood and/or wood products), soya, palm oil, cocoa, natural rubber, cattle and coffee.

What must importers and distributors do to meet the requirements?

Depending on your business’ position in the supply chain, once a relevant product is placed on the European market, you must:

• Understand how the regulation affects your business
• Perform a GAP analysis regarding EUDR compliance
• Establish a management system including data collection, traceability of suppliers, geolocation of relevant goods’ origin, risk management and mitigation, due diligence processes, reporting and data storage, and connection to the European Commission's information system
• Verify the compliance of the management system
• Perform supplier audits in medium or high-risk areas

How is EUDR implemented?

The regulation enters into force on 30 December 2025 for large and medium sized enterprises. For small and micro-enterprises, it enters into force on 30 June 2026. Originally, the regulation should enter into force on 30 December 2024 for large and medium-sized enterprises and on 30 June 2025 for small and micro-enterprises, but the regulation was postponed one year. 

What is the value of the EUdR?

The aim of the regulation is to ensure that products purchased by EU consumers do not contribute to deforestation and climate change.