Report on the EUDR-seminar held on the 6th of December 2024 by Sandra van Hulsen
EUDR, A NEW TOOL TO PREVENT DEFORESTATION
Summary of the EUDR Seminar VTB 2024
By Sandra van Hulsen
The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), aimed at curbing deforestation in supply chains like palm oil, soy, cocoa, coffee, and rubber, has seen its implementation delayed to 2025. Experts from science, business, and NGOs, addressed the implications of this delay, its potential effectiveness, challenges, and implications for stakeholders at the VTB seminar in December 2024.
Effectiveness and Challenges
Speakers highlighted the EU’s limited global influence, given the dominance of markets like China and the US in sectors such as Brazilian beef exports. Additionally, technical and administrative hurdles, such as insufficient preparation time and lack of consultation with producing countries, necessitate the postponement. Implementation challenges include complex traceability systems, the need for detailed geolocation data, and significant financial and technical barriers for smallholders.
Impact on Smallholders
Smallholders, comprising a significant portion of the coffee, cocoa, and rubber sectors, face substantial challenges in meeting EUDR requirements due to their remote locations, limited resources, and lack of support. Many risk exclusion from supply chains, with companies potentially shifting to larger producers or other markets. Concerns were raised about the regulation exacerbating market concentration, particularly in cocoa and coffee, where EU dependence is high.
Proposed Solutions
Speakers urged the EU and companies to invest in capacity building, traceability systems, and financial support for smallholders. Collaborative partnerships between buyers and suppliers were seen as critical for ensuring compliance and equitable cost distribution. Suggestions included integrating compliance costs into Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategies, and investments from the financial sector.
Conclusion
While the EUDR marks a significant step toward reducing deforestation, its success hinges on international cooperation, sector-specific adaptations, and long-term partnerships. Broader market engagement, particularly from China and the US, remains essential to achieving meaningful impact.
See the whole report of the EUDR Seminar here: Report EUDR Seminar VTB 2024
For information on capacity-building for producers in affected supply chains the non-commercial alliance Emma4EU was recommended (www.emma4eu.eu).