What’s changing and when?
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.
What Is the EU Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR)?
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:
- Beef, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, soy, natural rubber, and wood
must be proven deforestation-free and legally produced before being placed on the EU market or exported.
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).
What businesses should do now
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:
- Mapping your supply chains to identify where deforestation risk may exist.
- Engaging suppliers early to gather due diligence data.
- Monitoring updates from the European Commission on potential timeline changes.
- Developing internal compliance systems aligned with Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 requirements.
For additional context, see our internal guide on due diligence in sustainable supply chains.
Why compliance still matters
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.
Summary and next steps
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.
