Commission updates guidance on anti-deforestation law

Euractiv

2 days ago

The European Commission on Tuesday clarified definitions and exemptions related to its anti-deforestation regulation, while maintaining the timeline for enforcement.
Under the new anti-deforestation regulation (EUDR), certain products such as soy, cocoa, coffee, livestock, palm oil, timber, and rubber will be banned from entering the European Union – unless they are 'deforestation-free.'
After pressure from EU countries and trade partners, the European Commission previously delayed the regulations to December.
The updated guidance document follows the current timeline, with micro- and small companies needing to apply the rules as of 30 June 2026. It also clarifies key definitions such as 'negligible risk' – which means that there is solid proof that a product is compliant with the EUDR rules – and reiterates that converting forest to land for non-agricultural use is not considered deforestation under the regulation.
Just last week, food importers were seeking clarity on the EUDR, amid speculation about the possibility of re-opening the file. In a June vote, the European Parliament backed the relaxation of the rules, and EU farming chief Christophe Hansen told Euractiv he would support this – especially for products made in the EU.
However, Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall has the final say and Hansen confirmed in July that no decision had been made on easing or delaying the regulation. Potential changes could be included in a simplification package aimed at farmers and foresters due this autumn.
Environmental groups hope that this won't happen. 'The update of the guidance is a positive sign that the Commission is still working on supporting the implementation of the EUDR. We hope it means that credibility and legal certainty will prevail over attempts to reopen the EUDR, and that it won't be included in a [simplification] omnibus of any sort,' the NGO Rainforest Alliance told Euractiv.
Farming ministers resume push to delay EU deforestation rules
Following pressure from EU capitals, the European Commission previously delayed the entry into force of the EU's anti-deforestation regulation (EUDR) to December 2025. But agriculture ministers are now calling for further simplifications.
(vib)