BRAZIL – Brazil government authorities urge the European Commission to reconsider its anti-deforestation rules, which could impact its exports by nearly USD 15 billion.

The EU’s 2022 legislation bans imports from deforested areas after 2022, effective December 30, 2024 despite some member states’ skepticism. Brazil views these laws as “unilateral and punitive.”

The law prohibits imports of various goods, including coffee, cocoa, and timber, if produced on deforested land after December 2020. It requires importers to trace their supply chains using geolocation and satellite data.

While EU officials consider simplifying the rules, many agriculture ministers express concerns about new bureaucratic obstacles and potential competition distortions.

Brazil’s government has formally requested a delay in the law’s implementation, emphasizing its potential negative impact on trade.