EU proposes extension of deforestation regulation deadline 

EU- The European Commission has proposed a 12-month extension for the implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), originally set to take effect by the end of 2024.  

Under the revised timeline, large companies must now comply by 30 December 2025, while micro- and small enterprises have until 30 June 2026 to meet the regulation’s stringent requirements. 

The EUDR is aimed at preventing deforestation-linked products from entering the EU market, with a focus on key commodities such as cocoa, coffee, palm oil, and soy. 

Companies must demonstrate that their supply chains are free from deforestation-related practices since 31 December 2020, with penalties for non-compliance reaching up to 4 percent of their annual turnover in the EU. 

The decision to extend the deadline comes in response to concerns from cocoa-producing countries and industry stakeholders about the readiness of businesses to meet the new regulations.  

Several countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Brazil, and Ivory Coast, had expressed worries about potential trade barriers and the impact on the competitiveness of European cocoa producers. 

The European Cocoa Association (ECA) emphasized that the original timeline could have put European producers at a disadvantage in the global market without adequate preparation time.  

By granting an extension, the EU aims to give companies sufficient time to adjust to the law’s requirements while maintaining the competitiveness of key industries. 

In addition to preventing deforestation, the EUDR also mandates that companies ensure their products comply with the legal requirements of the country of origin, including respect for human rights and the protection of indigenous communities. 

Uganda starts farmer registration

Meanwhile, Uganda has begun registering coffee farmers and other value chain actors to ensure compliance with the EUDR.  

Frank K. Tumwebaze, Uganda’s Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries, called for local leaders to support the registration process, which is being conducted by enumerators from the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) and industry stakeholders. 

The extension allows the EU to remain committed to its environmental goals while giving businesses in key sectors more time to adapt to the new regulations. 

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE