Advancing EUDR: a time to act and make it a reality

The European Commission has recently unveiled its new political agenda, prioritizing simplification and reducing administrative burdens to boost competitiveness for businesses. At the same time, the Commission has reaffirmed that delivering on the EU Green Deal remains a priority. 

The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is one of the landmark EU Green Deal initiatives – and it serves as a catalyst for action to fight deforestation in Europe and globally. 

At FSC, we believe that sustainability and competitiveness goals can – and must – go hand in hand. Calls for regulatory simplification should not undermine the ambitions to halt deforestation and forest degradation.  

Originally set to apply in December 2024, the EUDR is now scheduled to enter into force at the end of 2025. Alongside the delay, discussions on simplification measures have been gaining momentum as part of the broader EU omnibus simplification package. 

However, simplification and delays must not translate into inaction. Now is the time to test solutions, build partnerships, and remain committed to forests. Businesses have a unique opportunity to lead the way, demonstrating that deforestation-free supply chains are not only possible but can also become a driver of long-term market resilience. Below is a selection of tools and actions to start making EUDR a reality: 
 
New EU Commission website 

The EU Commission has revamped its EUDR webpage. It offers updated information and tools for implementation. Staying informed is the first step for compliance preparation. 

EU guide on value chain scenarios by company type 

A new EU Commission document provides an overview of how obligations apply, depending on company type (operator/trader), size, and position in the supply chain within the EU. The guide illustrates ten different supply chain scenarios to help companies identify their obligations. Check more here. 

EUDR – myth vs reality guidance 

EUDR is often surrounded by misconceptions. For example, compliance does not necessarily mean excessive paperwork—due diligence can be managed online, with information submitted once in the EU Information System and later reused. See more in the EUDR myth buster More here. 

The EU information system 

Due diligence statements must be submitted electronically in the EUDR Information System, where national authorities will verify compliance. The system will feature an Application Programming Interface (API) to ensure interoperability with emerging tech tools and existing business management systems. Videos and trainings explaining how the system works are available here. FSC is developing a new technology based on blockchain, FSC Trace, which will facilitate and simplify data collection and automatic uploads for compliance. 

EUDR Competent Authorities (CAs) 

EU Member States have designated almost all authorities responsible for enforcing EUDR. These authorities will verify information submitted by operators and traders, in and outside the EU, request clarifications, restrict non-compliant products, and impose penalties. The updated list of CAs is available online.  
 
EUDR guidance document & new FAQs 

The European Commission has tabled a non-binding guidance document to support harmonized EUDR implementation. It clarifies key aspects such as traceability, legality, and role of certification schemes, such as FSC, in supporting compliance. The document does not substitute the law and can be used a reference for operators, traders, and authorities. The Commission has also updated its Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to address stakeholders’ concerns. FAQs are regularly updated, make sure to review them. 

What actions companies can take and how FSC can support 

Businesses can already take proactive steps, such us improving supply chain transparency, conducting risk assessments, establishing due diligence processes, engaging with smallholders and suppliers, educating internal teams, and considering certification with an EUDR-aligned system relevant to their products. 

FSC is committed to fighting deforestation and supporting companies in their journey towards EUDR compliance. Our rigorous certification already lays down a strong foundation, serving as a bridge between sustainability goals and regulatory needs. FSC’s tailored EUDR-aligned solutions provide a comprehensive, fully aligned approach that streamlines compliance, offering detailed risk assessments and traceability solutions beyond deforestation and helping businesses meet evolving environmental and social requirements. 

Next steps 

• Monitor EU Commission updates – Stay informed about evolving EUDR tools and updates. 
• Leverage FSC resources – Leverage FSC certifications and solutions to streamline compliance efforts whilst strengthening sustainability performance. 
• Take action now – Test and implement solutions to demonstrate your commitment  

The EUDR delay offers more time to ensure effective implementation – not a reason to wait. By preparing early, building partnerships and leveraging new and existing tools to simplify processes, companies can turn compliance into an opportunity. The path to deforestation-free supply chains combines streamlined compliance without compromising sustainability ambitions. Despite uncertainties, we can all act today to make the EUDR a reality. 

How to stay informed 

For general interest, information on EUDR, and an overview of FSC's work, please visit fsc.org/EUDR 

If you're a company ready to start implementing, or looking for more detail on FSC Aligned for EUDR, please visit the FSC EUDR Journey site. 

For more information on FSC Trace, please visit fsc.org/FSCTrace 

More questions? Visit our FAQ page or send an email to EUDR@fsc.org.