Your partner in EUDR compliance

What does the EUDR entail?

The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is a directly effective European regulation aimed at combating deforestation and forest degradation in global supply chains. The EUDR places far-reaching obligations on companies that place certain raw materials and derived products on the EU market or export them from the EU.

Companies must demonstrate that products are deforestation-free, comply with relevant legislation in the country of origin and have a valid due diligence statement. The regulation covers such products as timber, cocoa, coffee, soy, palm oil, rubber and beef, as well as various derived products.

The EUDR entails a sweeping compliance and enforcement framework, with oversight by national authorities and significant penalties for non-compliance. The rules are detailed, strict and leave little room for error. An incomplete due diligence process or insufficient substantiation can lead to trade restrictions, fines or reputational damage.

Companies face traceability, risk assessment and documentation requirements, often within complex international supply chains. Knowledge of the regulation, implementing rules and enforcement practices is essential to operate compliantly.

For which companies is the EUDR relevant?

The EUDR affects a broad group of companies that place EUDR-relevant raw materials or products on the EU market, trade within the EU or export. The obligations differ by role in the chain.

The regulation is particularly relevant to:

  • Importers and producers of timber, cocoa, coffee, soy, palm oil, rubber and beef.
  • Food and industrial companies that process these raw materials into finished products
  • Traders, wholesalers and distributors who trade EUDR products within the EU
  • Retailers that purchase products and sell them under their own name
  • Exporters who export EUDR products from the EU

Companies that first bring a product to the EU market or export it (operators) have the most onerous obligations, including extensive due diligence and traceability. Companies that further trade products (traders) have lighter, but still clear information and due diligence obligations.

SMEs may also be covered by the EUDR. Micro and small businesses are subject to simplified obligations in some cases, but there is no complete exemption.

In short: does your company have a role in the trade, processing or distribution of high-risk commodities? If so, EUDR is probably relevant.

What is our experience with EUDR compliance?

Our specialists advise companies on the legal application of EUDR within their organization and supply chain. We combine knowledge of European regulatory law with experience in enforcement and compliance. Our expertise includes:

  • Legal guidance on EUDR implementation - We guide companies in setting up and securing EUDR obligations within existing processes
  • Advice on applicability and scope - Analysis of products, market roles and responsibilities within the chain
  • Due diligence and traceability - Legal review and support on risk assessments and disclosure obligations
  • Contractual advice - Review and modification of supplier and off-take contracts
  • Enforcement and monitoring - Support with audits, competent authority inquiries and enforcement processes
  • Preventive compliance advice - Risk management and preparation for supervision and sanctions

We think practically and legally astute to make compliance workable and defensible.

When should you engage a lawyer with legal knowledge of EUDR?

For producers, importers and traders

  • When assessing whether products fall under the EUDR
  • When setting up or assessing due diligence systems
  • When questions exist about traceability or origin information
  • In enforcement actions or inspections by competent authorities
  • In contract negotiations within the supply chain

For directors and compliance officers

  • When identifying EUDR risks within the organization
  • For preventive legal advice and compliance strategies

How do we proceed?

  • Thorough analysis and preparation - We start with an analysis of your position in the chain, the products involved and the legal obligations.
  • Customized personalized advice - On this basis, we develop a practical and legally tenable approach.
  • Practical and targeted support - From documentation and contracts to supervision and enforcement.
  • Quick and pragmatic approach - In the event of enforcement or disputes, we act energetically and purposefully.
  • Transparent communication - Clear coordination on steps, risks and possible outcomes.

Why choose our EUDR specialists?

Our EUDR specialists have specialized knowledge of European regulation and enforcement and extensive experience with compliance issues within international supply chains. We take a practical approach with an eye for business processes and ensure short lines of communication and fast response times. Integral cooperation with other specialties within Banning enables us to provide clients with broad and effective support. We offer legal support that goes beyond simply explaining the rules.

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