The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is a key instrument of the European Union for combating global deforestation and protecting biodiversity. It obliges companies to ensure that certain raw materials and products they market in the EU do not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation. However, shortly before its planned entry into force at the end of 2025, the regulation is once again at the center of political and economic discussions.

What does the EUDR regulate?
The EUDR applies to products that consist wholly or partly of the following raw materials: beef, cocoa, coffee, soy, palm oil, wood, and rubber. Companies must prove that these products:

• Are deforestation-free (not sourced from areas deforested after December 31, 2020)
• Have been produced in accordance with the law in the country of origin
• And have a valid due diligence statement (DDS).

Timetable and scope

• Entry into force for large companies: December 30, 2025
• For micro and small enterprises: June 30, 2026

Simplifications and guidelines

In April 2025, the EU Commission published new guidelines and FAQs to facilitate implementation. The aim is to reduce the administrative burden on companies by 30%. The simplifications include:

• Reuse of DDS for re-imports
• Option for annual rather than batch-based DDS submission
• Clarification of the “duty to determine” for downstream market participants
• Introduction of a country benchmarking system for risk classification

These measures are intended to make implementation more practicable for companies without jeopardizing environmental goals.

Possible postponement
Despite the progress made, the EUDR is once again facing a possible postponement of another year. The EU Commission cites technical problems with the IT system as the reason. However, there are also various interest groups that have differing opinions on this regulation.

The coming weeks will be decisive: Will the EUDR come into force as planned at the end of 2025 or will it be postponed?

In any case, companies should prepare accordingly. We are happy to help you with this.

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