There has been significant movement in the debate over the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) in recent weeks. First, discussions began about yet another possible postponement of the implementation date. Now, the Commission has proposed that large and medium-sized companies maintain the current timeline set for 30 December 2025. Micro and small enterprises would follow one year later. The latest proposal also simplifies reporting obligations by focusing due diligence at the point where products first enter the EU market.
The back-and-forth regarding the EUDR is causing significant uncertainty. Delaying it would have risked the collapse of Europe's credibility as a leader in the green transition. The new proposal is therefore a step back in the right direction. However, it still needs to be approved by the European Parliament and the Council, and time is short. With the end of the year fast approaching, companies urgently need regulatory certainty now.
Ahead of COP30, where climate accountability and land-use commitments will be prioritised, the spotlight will be on how the EU manages this regulation going forward
A step in the right direction
The simplifications are a welcome step overall, as they partially reduce the administrative burden for downstream operators and for micro and small primary producers, who, according to the Commission, make up almost all agricultural and forestry producers within the EU.
However, they also raise important questions about how traceability will be ensured along the entire supply chain once the first due diligence statement has been submitted. At the same time, with the legislative process still ongoing, there is a risk that uncertainty about the regulation's adoption will delay preparations. Across global agricultural supply chains, companies have already invested in collecting geolocation data, improving traceability, and strengthening supplier relationships.
Certification systems have developed additional frameworks that align with the requirements of the EUDR. The market now needs reassurance that these efforts will be recognised and effectively built upon.
Ahead of COP30, where climate accountability and land-use commitments will be prioritised, the spotlight will be on how the EU manages this regulation going forward. Its leadership and credibility depend on upcoming decisions that will determine whether the EU can uphold its own standards.
We cannot afford any more weeks, months, or years of uncertainty in the fight against deforestation and climate change
A call for swift adoption
The EUDR sets a standard that is admittedly ambitious. Applying it across diverse commodities and regions and achieving traceability at the farm level for millions of producers, is a significant challenge. The good news is that this has been the core business of sustainability certification schemes, such as ISCC, for years. They already provide robust, proven, and scalable tools to verify deforestation-free supply chains.
So, what should happen now?
First, it is essential that the European Parliament and the Council swiftly decide on the proposed amendments to avoid further confusion and delay.
Second, further guidance on the documentation required to verify compliance with the EUDR is needed to provide clarity to the market.
Lastly, the EC should build on proven experience in traceability and leverage existing certification schemes to ensure implementation.
The EUDR embodies the EU's promise to make trade a force for environmental protection. At COP30, Europe must show that firm ecological policy and practical implementation can go hand in hand. We cannot afford any more weeks, months, or years of uncertainty in the fight against deforestation and climate change.
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