Showtime for EUDR?

Isabel Fernandez, Senior Consultant at Mighty Earth said:

“We’re glad to hear that the European Commission has finally gotten off hold with its tech support team, grappled with its IT issues, and for the most part this world-beating legislation will be enforced on time from December 30th.

“However, exempting due diligence for downstream operators and traders creates a major blind spot in the EUDR framework. This makes it very difficult and resource-intensive for Member State agencies to track down non-compliant products already circulating on the EU market – especially when they are traded across Member State borders.

“Now it’s up to the European Parliament, the Council, and the Commission to ensure that the proposed six-month delay in penalties for all operators is clearly communicated and implemented transparently. This six-month window is not an excuse for inaction, but a crucial period for competent authorities to carry out checks, address infringements and ensure full compliance.

“In a climate and nature emergency, with forests falling fast, there is no more time for dress rehearsals. It’s showtime!”