Brussels: The European Commission has successfully negotiated a provisional political agreement with the European Parliament and the Council to extend the phase-in period for the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) by 12 months. This extension is designed to ensure a smooth and effective implementation of the regulation, which aims to combat deforestation and forest degradation, key contributors to climate change and biodiversity loss.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the agreement allows large companies to comply with the regulation by 30 December 2025, while micro- and small enterprises have until 30 June 2026. This additional time will enable third countries, Member States, operators, and traders to adequately prepare for the new requirements. The Commission’s proposal for the extension was influenced by feedback from international partners, Member States, and companies regarding their readiness for the regulation’s implementation.
The EUDR, which entered into force on 30 June 2023, mandates that companie
s exercise due diligence when placing or exporting products such as palm oil, cattle, soy, coffee, cocoa, timber, and rubber on the EU market. The regulation is part of a broader package of support measures announced by the Commission, including guidance documents and a stronger international cooperation framework. The Commission is also focused on finalizing the country benchmarking system by 30 June 2025 and launching an information system for business due diligence statements on 4 December.
The European Parliament and the Council are expected to formally adopt the targeted amendment soon, allowing the EUDR to come into effect as planned. In the meantime, the Commission will continue to provide clarifications and explore simplifications to ensure the regulation’s success.