FSC on EUDR: A Pragmatic Step Forward for Forests

The EU’s balanced decision - avoiding delay while granting flexibility for smallholders - shows determination to deliver. FSC stands ready to help bridge the remaining gaps in implementation. 

Bonn, Germany, 21 October 2025—The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) welcomes the European Commission’s proposal for a six-month grace period and exemptions for SMEs, smallholders and foresters under the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). These adjustments reflect a pragmatic, delivery-focused approach that can make the Regulation effective in practice without weakening its ambition.

FSC supports the Commission’s balanced proposal and calls on the European Parliament and Council to swiftly endorse this compromise. With COP30 on the horizon, we need tangible solutions for forests at the nexus of climate, biodiversity and land. The EUDR can still be a model of inclusive and effective climate action if we focus on joint delivery and partnerships with producing countries.

— Subhra Bhattacharjee, Director General, FSC International

Since day one, as a member of the European Commission’s EUDR Platform, FSC has championed the Regulation’s intent and aligned its system accordingly. Independent benchmarking by Assurance Services International (ASI) confirms that the FSC certification and its Regulatory Module is already aligned with EUDR requirements.  

Even before entering into effect, the EUDR has already sparked positive change - challenging all of us to evolve, innovate, and improve. For a deforestation-free future, our compass should be delivery, accountability and action.

— Matteo Mascolo, FSC Global Sustainability Policy Lead, Europe

FSC is also ready to support smallholders through its tailored programmes, including the FSC EUDR Early Adopters Initiative, which helped producers and businesses prepare for compliance and strengthen their market position. Yet EUDR compliance is only the beginning. FSC’s system — from the FSC Regulatory Module, Risk Assessment Framework, and FSC Trace — equips companies to move beyond compliance towards leadership, creating forest-positive supply chains that are transparent, resilient and ready for what’s next. 

For more insights, watch our latest public webinar on EUDR and deforestation-free supply chains: 👉 EUDR and Deforestation-Free Supply Chains

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.org/starteudr.

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.


This update is currently a proposal from the European Commission. It awaits adoption by the European Parliament and Council.