The EUDR in Brief
The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is one of the most significant sustainability regulations affecting global supply chains. Its objective is to ensure that products placed on, made available in, or exported from the EU market are not linked to deforestation or forest degradation after 31 December 2020.
Companies sourcing relevant commodities must demonstrate that their products are deforestation-free, produced in accordance with applicable legislation in the country of production, and supported by robust due diligence procedures. The regulation introduces new transparency requirements across supply chains and places a strong emphasis on traceability down to the plot of land where commodities were produced.
EUDR Whitepaper
European Commission Review Published on 4 May 2026
On 4 May 2026, the European Commission published its long-awaited review of the EUDR, accompanied by updated guidance, revised FAQs, and a draft Delegated Act proposing limited amendments to the list of products covered by the regulation. The Commission’s message was clear: the EUDR will not be reopened, and no further delays or postponements are foreseen.
The current implementation timeline therefore remains unchanged:
– 30 December 2026 for large and medium-sized companies;
– 30 June 2027 for small and micro enterprises that were not previously covered under the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR).
While the Commission estimates that previous simplification measures and updated guidance could significantly reduce compliance costs, the core obligations of the regulation remain fully intact. The review confirms regulatory certainty and provides businesses with a clear signal: preparation efforts should continue without delay.
Which Commodities Are in Scope?
The EUDR covers seven key commodities associated with deforestation risk:
Cattle, Cocoa, Coffee, Palm oil, Rubber. Soy and Wood.
In addition to these commodities, a range of derived products are also included under Annex I of the regulation. The draft Delegated Act published on 4 May proposes several targeted adjustments to this product scope. Notably, the Commission proposes:
Adding to scope:
– Soluble coffee
– Selected palm oil derivatives
Removing from scope:
– Leather products
– Retreaded tyres
Clarifying exemptions for:
– Product samples
– Certain packaging materials
– Used and second-hand products
– Waste products
These proposals are currently subject to consultation and feedback procedures before final adoption. However, they are not expected to fundamentally alter the scope or objectives of the regulation.
The Due Diligence Statement Obligation
A central requirement of the EUDR is the submission of a Due Diligence Statement (DDS) before relevant products can be placed on the EU market or exported from the EU. Through the DDS, companies must confirm that they have conducted due diligence and concluded that the risk of non-compliance is negligible. This process requires companies to:
1. Collect information on the product and supply chain;
2. Assess the risk of deforestation, forest degradation, or legal non-compliance;
3. Implement risk mitigation measures where necessary;
4. Submit a Due Diligence Statement through the EU Information System before placing products on the market.
The updated Commission guidance provides additional clarification on these obligations, but the fundamental requirement remains unchanged: companies must be able to demonstrate that their products are both deforestation-free and legally produced.
Geolocation Data: What Suppliers Need to Provide
One of the most challenging aspects of EUDR compliance is the collection of geolocation information.
To verify that production did not take place on land subject to deforestation after 31 December 2020, operators must obtain precise geolocation data for the plots where relevant commodities were produced. This information allows companies and authorities to assess deforestation risks using satellite imagery and other verification tools. ImpactBuying can assist, together with partners, in getting this verified data.
What This Means for Businesses
The Commission’s review provides important clarity: the EUDR is moving forward as planned. While some refinements to product scope are still under discussion, the regulation’s core requirements remain unchanged.
Businesses that have not yet started collecting supplier data, geolocation information, and due diligence evidence should treat the coming months as a critical preparation period. With enforcement beginning on 30 December 2026, companies that proactively engage their suppliers and strengthen traceability systems today will be best positioned to meet the requirements and maintain uninterrupted access to the European market.
Towards compliance with the EUDR
The European Commission (EC) has confirmed that implementation of this European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) will be enforced. ImpactBuying (IB) provides a pragmatic, down-to-earth approach that ensures that clients are legally compliant. You will have evidence of EUDR implementation for both their Branded and Private label products and for their different roles in the EUDR trade process (trader, operator, downstream operator).
We offer:
- Registration of due diligence statements as authorized representative
- Tailor-made EUDR Handbook
- Training of staff and/or suppliers
- Supplier risk assessment by EUDR Supplier Audit developed with IFS
- Product risk assessment by EUDR
How we solve your EUDR challenge
We step in where you need help. From a tailor-made EUDR Handbook to training of staff and/or suppliers, and from basic data verification in your own IT tools to a full-fledged automated IT solution. Just let us know where we can support you to make sure that you are compliant in time. For more details you can download our EUDR Whitepaper or get in contact.
Benefits of ImpactBuying’s EUDR Solution
End-to-End Compliance
Create transparency until farmer and beyond, and have the needed insights.
Guided process
Our system provides a clear, step-by-step guide through the necessary procedures to meet EUDR due diligence requirements.
Automated Workflows
We streamline complex compliance tasks with automated workflows, enhancing both efficiency and accuracy.
Fast Implementation
Quickly integrate existing supplier data and utilize predefined templates and configurations to expedite the compliance process.
Adaptable to Businesses of all sizes
Whether you’re managing a few or thousands of suppliers, our solution is adaptable to companies of all sizes, ensuring a smooth path to compliance.
Integrated ESG Strategy
Leverage our comprehensive solutions to align with broader ESG regulations, using insights from various integrated modules.
Why Choose ImpactBuying?
We go beyond just meeting regulations – we help you create a sustainable future. With continuously updated tools, expert guidance, and seamless integration, we ensure your path to EUDR compliance is both cost-effective and efficient.
Ready to simplify EUDR compliance?