EUDR is coming: 3 things you need to do to make sure you’re compliant

Firstly, what’s EUDR?

The European Union has rolled out the Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) to tackle global deforestation and forest degradation. This regulation, which came into effect on 29 June 2023, requires that certain commodities and products sold within or exported from the EU must be deforestation-free and produced according to the laws of their country of origin. It’s essential to know what to do, and by when, if you’re already selling affected products in Europe, or considering expanding your business into the EU.

Here’s a quick outline of the 4 things you must do to comply with this new regulation.

1. Make note of the key dates and enforcement timeline

• 30 December 2025: Large operators and traders must comply.
• 30 June 2026: Micro and small enterprises must comply.

This staggered timeline gives businesses of all sizes time to prepare for compliance.

2. Check your supply chains for these affected commodities and products 

The EUDR covers the following commodities and their derived products:

• Cattle (e.g. beef, leather)
• Cocoa (e.g. chocolate)
• Coffee
• Oil palm (e.g. palm oil)
• Rubber (e.g. tires)
• Soy
• Wood (e.g. furniture, paper)

These products are often sold online, so e-commerce businesses need to check their supply chains for compliance. Make sure your suppliers understand and comply with EUDR requirements to avoid disruptions.

3. Meet compliance requirements for traders 

To meet EUDR standards, businesses must:

• Ensure products are deforestation-free: Products must not come from land deforested after 31 December 2020.
• Adhere to legal production standards: Products must be produced in line with the laws of the country of origin, including environmental, labour, and human rights laws.
• Submit due diligence statements: Before selling products in the EU or exporting them, businesses must submit electronic due diligence statements via the EU’s Information System.

Non-compliance can lead to hefty penalties, including fines and market access restrictions. E-commerce sellers should set up thorough due diligence processes to verify their products’ deforestation-free status.

How does the EUDR align with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the circular economy?

EPR registration, which AVASK supports with, requires producers to take responsibility for their products’ entire lifecycle, including end-of-life disposal. This encourages sustainable product design, reduces waste, and promotes recycling and reuse. Read more about EPR.

By complying with EUDR, e-commerce sellers can also support the circular economy by ensuring their products are sustainably sourced and legally produced. This approach minimises environmental impact and fosters innovation in product design and waste management. Embracing these principles can enhance brand reputation and consumer trust, making sustainability a core part of your business strategy.

With the advent of tools such as Digital Product Passports (DPPS), e-commerce sellers can use compliance as a competitive edge by highlighting their dedication to sustainability in their marketing and product information.

Key takeaways about EUDR

Large businesses must be compliant by the end of 2025, and small businesses must be compliant by the end of June 2026.

Online sellers, especially those dealing with the affected commodities, should make sure to:

• Map supply chains: Identify where products come from and ensure they meet EUDR requirements.
• Engage suppliers: Work closely with suppliers to get the necessary documentation and compliance assurances.
• Update internal processes: Implement systems to collect, verify, and submit due diligence information.
• Stay informed: Keep an eye on updates from the European Commission regarding risk assessments and guidance documents.

Take proactive steps now to ensure compliance and show your commitment to sustainable and responsible business practices.