The European Commission (EC) has proposed delaying the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) by 12 months, following concerns from global companies and governments. Initially set to take effect on 30 December 2024, the law will ban the sale of seven commodities – palm oil, soybeans, timber, rubber, coffee, cocoa, and cattle – all highly linked to deforestation. If approved by EU ministers and the European Parliament, the new enforcement dates will be 30 December 2025 for large companies and 30 June 2026 for small and micro-enterprises.
The EC said the delay would allow for a “phasing-in period” to ensure businesses are fully prepared. Some stakeholders are ready, but others require more time to meet compliance requirements. The delay will not change the objectives or substance of the law. Germany’s Union for the Promotion of Plants and Protein (UFOP) welcomed the move, while industry association FEDIOL raised concerns about financial losses from high-risk investments already made. Indonesia, a leading palm oil exporter, also supported the delay but criticised the EU’s benchmarking system that classifies countries based on deforestation risk.
Critics argue the delay undermines climate action. Virginijus Sinkevičius, former EU environment commissioner, warned the postponement could result in the loss of 32,000 hectares of forest per day and harm the EU’s climate commitments. The EC has published additional guidance and a strategic framework for global cooperation, aiming to ensure smooth implementation when the law eventually comes into force.