Why the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) May Be Delayed Again

The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), designed to ensure products sold in the EU are “deforestation-free,” is facing a possible further delay to its implementation timeline.

Originally due to apply from 30 December 2024, the regulation was already postponed by one year, with the main obligations now set for 30 December 2025 (large and medium businesses) and 30 June 2026 (small and micro undertakings).

Now, EU Environment Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevičius has indicated that another postponement is being considered. The reason? Ongoing technical and administrative challenges – including delays in finalising the EU’s online information system where companies must submit their due diligence statements – and concerns from businesses and partner countries about readiness.

At this stage, no formal decision has been published, but discussions are underway between the European Commission and the Council.

When the regulation does apply, businesses placing covered products on the EU market will need to submit a Due Diligence Statement (DDS) through the EU’s information system. Each submission generates a unique DDS number, which acts as proof of compliance and must be shared with distributors and – for non-EU manufacturers – registered with their EU Authorised Representative, where applicable.

Even with a possible delay, companies trading in timber, coffee, cocoa, palm oil, soy, rubber and cattle products should continue preparing their due diligence and traceability systems. The core deforestation-free obligations remain unchanged.

We’ll update our guidance as soon as the EU confirms the new timeline.

---

EU Deforestation Regulation Resources

• Read our full EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) Guide
• For quick answers read our EUDR Frequently Asked Questions.

---

Product Compliance Advice

If you are looking for Product Compliance Consultancy and Advice our team at Product Compliance Support will be happy to help you with all your EUDR queries.