After weeks of hearsay, the EU Commission has officially proposed delaying the implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). The Commission stated that additional time is required to allow global stakeholders, Member States and third countries time to prepare. The proposal would delay the implementation of the EUDR by 12 months (to 30th December 2025).
A key area of the EUDR, which has not been published relates to the assignment of the risk to relevant countries. The proposal suggests postponing the release of this information by six months, giving operators more time to ensure that the necessary processes and data are in place prior to the implementation date. It must be stressed that this proposal does not mean companies should halt their preparations for the EUDR. The delay is yet to be agreed by the European Parliament and the Council and may still go ahead on schedule.
The announcement on the 3rd October also included the release of technical guidance on the EUDR, along with videos on how the Due Diligence Statement process operates.
Act now: Prepare for the EUDR
If your company imports or sells goods listed in Annex 1 of the EUDR into the EU, it is crucial to stay ahead of these regulatory changes. Don't wait for the final decision, start preparing now to ensure compliance. MHA’s Customs Team is available to assist with any concerns you may have regarding data requirements, processes, or due diligence obligations. Contact us today to ensure you're ready for the upcoming changes, regardless of any potential delays.