The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) was originally scheduled to apply from December 30, 2025. Now the EU Parliament has approved the one-year postponement. A final decision is expected by December 18 at the latest.

This means the obligation would then apply as follows:

• Large and medium-sized companies: Start on December 30, 2026
• Micro and small companies: Start on June 30, 2027

This decision aims to ease implementation, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) facing major administrative challenges.

Why Shall the EUDR be Postponed?

Introducing the EUDR is complex:

• Building the EU information system for electronic due diligence statements
• Providing geodata for agricultural plots
• High effort for companies to ensure traceability

The postponement would create legal certainty and give businesses more time to adapt their processes.

What Should be Changed Specifically?

• One-year extension for all companies
• Simplifications for SMEs:
  • One-time simplified due diligence statement
  • Providing business address instead of full geodata
  • Estimating harvest volumes instead of exact figures

• “Once-only” principle:
  • Only the first placer on the market must submit a due diligence statement
  • No need to pass reference numbers through the entire supply chain

What Remains Unchanged?

The goals of the EUDR remain the same:

• Products such as coffee, cocoa, soy, palm oil, timber, beef, and rubber may only be sold in the EU if they are deforestation-free.
• Companies must submit a due diligence statement and document their supply chains.

What Should Businesses Do Now?

The possible delay is no reason to stop preparations. On the contrary:
✔ Analyze supply chains and ensure deforestation-free sourcing
✔ Set up digital processes for traceability
✔ Communicate early with suppliers to close data gaps

Here is the official announcement from the EU Parliament.

The EUDR is coming – approximately just later. Businesses should use this extra time to make their systems and processes ready for the new requirements. The EU Commission will review further simplifications by April 2026, but the core obligations remain.

Use this extra time and prepare your supply chains for the EUDR – we’re here to support you!

Book a free solution check appointment today.