The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) aims to ensure that products placed on the EU market are deforestation-free and legally produced, covering key commodities such as beef, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, natural rubber, soy, and wood.

The regulation forms a central part of the EU’s wider sustainability agenda to combat deforestation and strengthen environmental accountability across global supply chains.

The European Commission has confirmed a six-month grace period following the 30 December 2025 implementation date for large businesses. During this period, non-compliant companies will not face fines, allowing operators and authorities additional time to finalise due diligence processes and ensure system readiness ahead of full enforcement.

Key Updates to the EUDR Framework

1. Simplified Reporting for Small Operators
   Micro and small primary operators in low-risk countries will not be required to submit full due diligence statements. Instead, they can complete a one-off simplified declaration confirming compliance.
2. New ‘Downstream Operator’ Definition
   The proposal introduces a new category of ‘downstream operators’, referring to companies handling products already made from compliant commodities — such as manufacturers, retailers, or distributors.
   These operators will no longer need to submit due diligence statements but must maintain traceability by passing on the unique identifier from the original declaration and retaining records to confirm product compliance.
3. Annual Due Diligence Option
   Businesses may now choose to submit annual due diligence statements rather than per shipment, helping to reduce administrative requirements while maintaining the option to report per shipment.
4. Information System Improvements
   The EU has acknowledged previous challenges with its TRACES-based information system, designed to manage due diligence submissions and product traceability. Ongoing system enhancements aim to ensure the platform can handle the regulation’s complex data requirements effectively.

Compliance and Enforcement Timeline

• Large businesses must comply from 30 December 2025, with a six-month grace period before fines are enforced; enforcement activities by competent authorities begin on 30 June 2026.
• Micro and small businesses must comply from 30 December 2026.
• Where authorities identify potential non-compliance before these dates, warnings and recommendations may be issued to support operators in achieving full compliance.

Operational Readiness and Supply Chain Assurance

Woodland Group has implemented robust internal processes to support and uphold EUDR compliance across its operations. Our teams are working closely with suppliers, distributors, and customers to ensure that all due diligence statements and traceability data are confirmed prior to shipment.

These proactive measures are designed to protect the integrity of our customers’ supply chains, maintain compliance standards, and ensure responsible movement of goods into and within the EU market.

Supporting Customers Through EUDR Compliance

At Woodland Group, we remain committed to helping our customers navigate evolving sustainability regulations such as EUDR. Through our global network, compliance expertise, and integrated technology solutions, we help businesses strengthen traceability, transparency, and governance across their supply chains.

Our teams continue to monitor regulatory developments closely and will share further updates and guidance as new information becomes available. For tailored advice or support in preparing for EUDR compliance, please contact your Woodland Group representative or contact us directly here.