The European Commission has published a comprehensive simplification package for the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), providing additional clarity for businesses and stakeholders ahead of the regulation’s application from 30 December 2026.
The package includes a report on simplification measures, updated guidance and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), a draft delegated act on product scope, and updates to the EUDR Information System. Together, these measures aim to make compliance more practical while maintaining the regulation’s environmental objectives.
According to the Commission, the implemented simplifications are expected to reduce annual compliance costs for companies by approximately 75% compared to the original EUDR framework. The measures include clearer guidance for downstream operators, simplified procedures for micro and small enterprises, and improved support for risk assessments and due diligence processes.
The draft delegated act also proposes adjustments to the list of products covered by the regulation. Potential additions include products such as soluble coffee and certain palm oil derivatives, while some products, including leather, retreaded tyres, used goods, and waste materials, may be excluded from the scope.
In parallel, the Commission is enhancing the EUDR Information System with a more user-friendly interface, simplified declaration processes for smaller operators, automated data integration, and new functionality requested by businesses.
The Commission confirmed that it remains focused on ensuring a smooth implementation of the regulation by 30 December 2026. Large and medium-sized companies will need to comply from that date, while most micro and small enterprises will have until 30 June 2027.
The EUDR aims to ensure that commodities such as cocoa, coffee, soy, palm oil, rubber, cattle, and wood placed on the EU market are not linked to deforestation or forest degradation. Even before entering into force, the regulation has already driven greater supply chain transparency and investment in traceability across global markets.
