Will another one-year delay to the EU Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR) give businesses more breathing space, or create more uncertainty?
With less than three months before compliance was due to begin, the European Commission has announced plans for a new one-year delay to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) 2023/1115. This is the second postponement in as many years — the first being made in 2024 — as the Commission continues to address technical challenges related to its new IT system.
According to European Commissioner for the Environment, Jessika Roswall, this delay is being considered to ensure smoother implementation for both EU businesses and trading partners outside the bloc.
The EUDR was originally due to apply from 30 December 2024. Following last year’s delay, the new proposed start date is 30 December 2025, with small and micro enterprises expected to comply from 30 June 2026.
However, no formal legislative proposal has been tabled yet. Until then, the regulation’s original 2025 deadline remains in effect, meaning companies should continue preparing to meet their due diligence obligations.
The EU Deforestation Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2023/1115) aims to reduce global deforestation and forest degradation linked to agricultural commodities entering the EU market.
It requires that products such as:
The regulation forms a key part of the EU’s Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and contributes to global sustainability goals.
(Learn more via the European Parliament’s overview).
Even with a potential delay, businesses cannot afford to pause their compliance preparations. The due diligence and traceability processes required under the EUDR are complex and will take time to implement.
Valpak recommends:
For additional context, see our internal guide on due diligence in sustainable supply chains.
Even if the implementation is delayed, non-compliance once enforcement begins could result in penalties, trade restrictions, and reputational damage. Staying proactive not only ensures compliance but also supports broader ESG and sustainability commitments.
For example, companies sourcing from regions with deforestation risks (e.g. palm oil or soy producers) will need to provide geolocation data and risk assessments to demonstrate their products meet EUDR requirements.
The proposed one-year delay of the EU Deforestation Regulation offers businesses additional time to refine their compliance processes — but preparation should continue without pause.
This evolving legislation reinforces the EU’s commitment to responsible sourcing and sustainable trade.
Call to action:
If your business imports agricultural or forestry products into the EU, now is the time to assess your supply chain’s readiness. Visit our Sustainable Supply Chains page to learn how Valpak can help your business navigate EUDR compliance, manage data collection, and strengthen supplier engagement.
Environmental Compliance Consultant