13th March 2025
The Deforestation Regulations 2023 (EUDR) will apply from December 2025 for large and medium companies and June 2026 for other organisations. The EUDR will apply to all UK companies (including those in Northern Ireland) intending to import to and export foodstuffs and products from the European Union. The products include coffee, cattle, palm oil, soybean, rubber and wood together with derived products.
EUDR requires companies to ensure that products sold within the EU are not linked to deforestation or forest degradation. This means that businesses must conduct thorough due diligence to trace the origins of their commodities and verify that they are sourced from deforestation-free supply chains. EUDR applies to goods produced on or after 29 June 2023.
To navigate these changes, companies in the food and drink sector should consider the following strategies:
While the food and drink sector faces challenges in adapting to EUDR, there are also substantial opportunities for growth and innovation. By embracing sustainable practices and prioritising transparency, companies can not only comply with the regulations but also evolve for the future.
Need support? Our Food & Drink team can help you meet these challenges. Find out more and get in touch with our team here.