The NPA has welcomed the European Commission’s proposal to delay the introduction of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) for 12 months.
The association has also called on the UK government to reconsider the timing for the equivalent UK Forest Risk Commodities (UKFRC) regulation, which has similar objectives to EUDR, to ensure it remains in step with EU.
The EUDR aims to ensure that certain commodities used in the EU market will no longer contribute to deforestation and forest degradation in the EU and elsewhere in the world.
However, the commission’s proposal, which needs to be ratified by the European Parliament and Council of Ministers, follows calls for a delay by a wide-ranging coalition of industry bodies concerned at the potential disruption to the sourcing of commodities like soya under the original timetable.
If the new timetable is approved, the law would apply from December 30, 2025, for large companies and from June 30, 2026, for micro- and small enterprises.
The Commission said the extra 12 months will serve as a phasing-in period to ensure proper and effective implementation, given that all the implementation tools are technically ready.
NPA reaction
NPA chief executive Lizzie Wilson said: “We welcome the commission’s proposal, which is the most sensible option available, given that it has become increasingly clear the supply chain is simply not in a position to deliver the requirements of EUDR by the start of next year.
“This would allow a transitioned introduction and, therefore, time for the supply chain to adjust to the new conditions, the detail of which will require further clarification.
“We have been expecting this announcement, but, so far, it is only the Commission’s intention – we urge the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers to ratify it at the earliest opportunity to bring much-needed certainty to the EU and UK food sectors.
“It is also important that the UK government adjusts the timetable for the similar UK Forest Risk Commodities regulation accordingly, so we are in step with the EU on this.”