Joint Statement: European Commission grants an additional twelve months for EUDR implementation in response to sector concerns

European primary producers and various industries welcome the European Commission’s proposal to extend the implementation period of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)  by an additional 12 months. While we fully support the regulation’s objective to combat global deforestation, it is crucial to ensure that it is implemented under the right conditions to be effective and feasible. 

For many months, our organisations have raised concerns about the regulation’s practical applicability and the substantial administrative burden it imposes. We therefore call the  European Parliament and the Council to consider the challenges raised by EU Member  States, third countries, and relevant stakeholders, and to approve the Commission’s proposal for a one-year postponement. 

The focus must now shift to addressing the practical challenges associated with the EUDR’s implementation to prevent uncertainties and avoid supply chain disruptions. We will carefully review the guidance document published today and remain committed to further dialogue to ensure workable solutions for all impacted sectors.

“FEFAC welcomes the European Commission proposal for 12 months of extra phasing-in time for the implementation of the EUDR, as well as the release of the Guidelines and updated FAQ, to facilitate the transition towards EUDR compliant value chains. FEFAC invites the European Parliament and the Council to adopt all related EUDR implementation measures to allow this transition to take place without jeopardising vital feed supply chains for soy (of both EU and non-EU origins) and palm oil (co-)products. FEFAC members remain committed to promoting the use of responsibly produced, deforestation-free soy in animal feed in accordance with the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines.” FEFAC President Pedro Cordero

Signatories: 

CEI-Bois – European Confederation of Woodworking Industries 

CEPF – Confederation of European Forest Owners 

Cepi – Confederation of European Paper Industries  

Copa-Cogeca – European Farmers and Agri-Cooperatives 

ELO – European Landowners’ Organization 

EOS – European Organisation of the Sawmill Industry 

EUSTAFOR – European State Forest Association 

FEFAC – Euroepan Feed Manufacturers’ Federation 

UECBV – European Livestock and Meat Trading Union

Full Joint Statement.