EU Deforestation Regulation Delayed to 2026, Sparking Criticism
The European Union's ambitious plan to combat deforestation, the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), has faced another setback. After an initial delay, the EU has now pushed back its implementation date to the end of 2026. This move has sparked criticism from environmental groups and raised questions about Europe's commitment to its climate leadership role.
The EUDR, initially slated for December 2024, aims to prevent products linked to deforestation or human rights abuses from entering the European market. It targets commodities like palm oil, beef, soy, coffee, and cocoa. However, the regulation's complex requirements have led to delays, with IT system issues and regulatory red tape cited as contributing factors.
Critics argue that these repeated delays, following similar postponements of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the EU Green Claims Directive, undermine Europe's credibility as a global climate leader. Environmental non-profits warn that the delay risks eroding market confidence and business certainty.
Indonesia's palm oil industry, a significant player in the sector, is lobbying for changes to the EUDR. They seek exemptions for smallholder farmers and recognition of their national sustainability certification scheme. Some companies, like Musim Mas, are prepared to comply but share concerns about the exclusion of smallholders.
EU environment commissioner Jessika Roswall has distanced herself from any connection between the postponed introduction date of the EUDR and the termination of trade negotiations with Indonesia. She announced the delay on September 23, 2025, attributing it to IT system concerns and emphasizing that no formal decision linked these issues to trade talks.
The EUDR's delayed implementation, now set for the end of 2026, raises questions about the EU's commitment to its ambitious environmental goals. As the global community looks to Europe for climate leadership, the EU must address these concerns and work towards a robust and timely implementation of its anti-deforestation law.
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