BELGIUM –    The European Commission has introduced a proposal to simplify compliance and ensure the full readiness of the IT system required for implementing the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).

Under the updated plan, micro and small enterprises will have until 30 December 2026 to comply, while large and medium-sized companies remain subject to the 30 December 2025 start date. The latter will, however, benefit from a six-month grace period for enforcement and checks.

The proposal includes targeted simplifications to ease the administrative burden, particularly for small and micro operators from low-risk countries, and for downstream operators such as retailers and manufacturers who market EUDR-compliant products already placed on the EU market.

Instead of multiple due diligence submissions, the new framework allows for a single declaration at the point of entry to the EU market, covering the entire supply chain. Small operators will only need to submit a one-off declaration in the IT system, and if relevant information is already in a national database, no additional action will be required.

These adjustments are designed to prevent system overload and ensure a smoother rollout. The European Parliament and the Council are now reviewing the proposal, which the Commission has urged them to adopt by the end of 2025.

“This approach provides certainty and stability for micro and small producers while maintaining full traceability,” said Teresa Ribera, Executive Vice-President for a Clean, Just and Competitive Transition.

“It simplifies the rules for small farmers and operators while preserving Europe’s leadership in fighting deforestation,” added Jessika Roswall, Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy.