Decision on EUDR
Already in October, we published a brief status update on the EUDR – the EU Regulation on Deforestation-Free Supply Chains. With this regulation, the EU aims to ensure that in the future only raw materials and products that do not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation will be brought to the market. It marks an important step toward greater transparency and is, at the same time, a complex challenge for many companies.
The originally planned start date of December 30, 2024, was postponed to the end of this year, as key practical questions regarding the implementation of the regulation remained unresolved. However, even this year, many of these uncertainties could not be fully addressed. After further months of ambiguity, it has now been decided to postpone the application date for large and medium-sized companies once again – to December 30, 2026. This decision must still be published in the EU’s Official Journal before the end of the year to become effective on time. The timeline therefore remains extremely tight.
In parallel, the EU has announced its intention to simplify certain procedures in order to ease the implementation process for companies. The actual effectiveness of these adjustments in practice will have to be evaluated over the coming months. That is why we continue to maintain close dialogue with our suppliers, customers, and industry associations to anticipate new developments early and find viable solutions for all stakeholders.
Regardless of regulatory delays, we remain committed to our goal of becoming fully “EUDR-ready” as soon as the necessary legal and technical frameworks are established. Even today, we offer a wide range of sustainably certified, palm-based products. Together with our partners, we have been working for many years to drive continuous improvements within the palm oil supply chain – firmly anchored in our Palm Oil Sourcing Policy.
Although the implementation of the EUDR continues to evolve, we stand by our commitment: we keep moving forward. With dedication, transparency, and foresight, we are doing everything we can to actively shape sustainable supply chains and contribute to a responsible future.
