EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)
Overview Summary
EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) requires companies to ensure that certain commodities and derived products placed on—or exported from—the EU market are deforestation‑free, legally produced and traceable to their plot of origin. Companies must implement due diligence to prove that supply chains are not linked to deforestation or forest degradation after 31 December 2020. The regulation also mandates geolocation data for every plot associated with the commodity.
Scope of Coverage
EUDR covers seven major commodities and many derived products:
– Cattle
– Cocoa
– Coffee
– Palm oil
– Soy
– Rubber
– Timber or wood products
The regulation requires full traceability, including geolocation coordinates, through the entire upstream supply chain.
Affected Entities
EUDR applies to:
– Operators that first place in‑scope commodities or products on the EU market or export them outside the EU
– Traders making in‑scope products available in the EU, but with reduced obligations (no due diligence statements; only traceability and, for larger traders, registration)
– Downstream operators placing processed products already covered by a due‑diligence statement or simplified declaration (also reduced obligations)
Micro and small operators have simplified obligations under the amended text. Larger primary operators must carry out full due diligence, risk assessment and mitigation and maintain geolocation data.
Applicability & Compliance Timeline
Updated timelines after 2024–2025 postponements:
30 December 2026 → Medium and large operators
30 June 2027 → Micro and small operators
What This Means for Companies
Companies must build a due diligence system that collects geolocation data, assesses deforestation risk and documents legal compliance in the country of origin. They also need to clarify their role as operators or traders and understand whether they must submit due diligence statements through the EU system.
MCS supports organisations with abstract risk analysis and land‑use compliance verification in collaboration with our partner Global Risk Assessment Services (GRAS). In addition, MCS assists organisations in conducting supplier risk assessments and in identifying and implementing mitigation measures in line with EUDR requirements.
Status
Adopted
- *Updated and simplified through amendments adopted in December 2024 and December 2025.
Key Links
European Commission Guidance and Implementation Page: https://green-forum.ec.europa.eu/nature-and-biodiversity/deforestation-regulation-implementation_en