EUDR – EU Deforestation Regulation
A new regulation that is changing international trade
The main objective of this regulation is to ensure that products entering or being traded within the European market do not come from land deforested after December 31, 2020, and comply with the legislation of the country of production.
EUDR represents one of the most important regulatory changes in recent years for agricultural, forestry, and agribusiness supply chains.
Although the regulation applies directly to operators that place products on the European market, these requirements ultimately extend across the entire supply chain, including producers, exporters, processors, and suppliers.
What does EUDR require?
The regulation requires that certain products and raw materials traded in the European Union:
-
do not come from areas deforested after December 31, 2020,
-
comply with the applicable legislation in the country of origin,
-
have traceable and verifiable information.
When does it start applying?
Following the latest amendments and postponements approved by the European Union, the regulation will start applying from:
- December 30, 2026 for large and medium-sized companies.
- June 30, 2027 for micro and small companies.
Which products are covered?
EUDR currently applies to seven main commodities and several of their derivatives:
Soy
Cocoa
Coffee
Palm oil
Wood
Rubber
Cattle
Main requirements for companies
Operators placing a regulated product on the European Union market must implement Due Diligence systems that demonstrate the origin and traceability of the products traded.
The main requirements include:
-
Collection of supply chain information.
-
Geolocation of production plots.
-
Risk assessment.
-
Traceability and record keeping.
-
Due Diligence statements before placing products on the European Union market. Companies unable to demonstrate compliance could face trade restrictions, increased controls, operational delays, and reputational risks.
Why choose Control Union?
As an independent certification and verification body, Control Union offers different types of services, helping companies demonstrate compliance with requirements linked to EUDR and the European market.
Our services include:
- deforestation verification programs,
- supply chain audits and verifications,
- chain of custody certifications,
- certification programs linked to sustainability and origin,
- independent traceability assessments.
Control Union works with different sectors and commodities globally, providing solutions adapted to the specific challenges associated with EUDR.
Related certifications and programs
There are multiple certification programs and sustainability schemes that can contribute to meeting certain requirements linked to EUDR.
Depending on the sector and supply chain, standards such as FSC, RTRS, ISCC, Rainforest Alliance, and other traceability and chain of custody programs can provide relevant tools and controls for companies.
However, it is important to understand that no program automatically replaces EUDR legal obligations.
Each company must specifically analyze how to apply regulatory requirements to its operation and stay updated on possible amendments, technical guidance, and implementation criteria published by the European Union.
Preparing in advance is key!
EUDR represents a structural change for international trade and supply chains linked to the European market.
Companies that begin working early on traceability, data collection, and risk assessment will be better positioned to adapt to the new requirements and reduce future operational impacts.
Do you need to assess how EUDR impacts your company or supply chain?
Contact the Control Union team for more information about related solutions and programs.
