EU RD : New European Commission publications
Less than nine months from the entry into force of the Deforestation Regulation (DREU/EUDR), the European Commission is stepping up its support for businesses by publishing a number of key documents on 15 April. These resources respond to persistent questions and seek to clarify some still unclear aspects of regulation.
The date of application of the EUDR is approaching: from 30 December 2025, large companies as well as SMEs will have to have a reasoned due diligence system in place. They will have to ensure that products placed on the market or exported are not derived from deforestation or forest degradation and comply with the laws of the country of production.
Some companies have already started their compliance process and have submitted their due diligence declarations (DDRs) via the EUDR Information System, now operational.
However, the day-to-day implementation of this regulation still raises many questions. The European Commission is continuing its efforts to provide concrete clarifications, particularly on previously unaddressed or poorly defined issues.
New documents published by the European Commission:
1. Fourth version of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
This update responds to many questions recently raised by operators and traders.
Clarification is provided on:
• the products or flows concerned (e.g. packaging, used products, samples),
• the definition of downstream operators and operators,
• the respective obligations of each actor, as well as illustrated scenarios for easier understanding.
2. Updated version of Commission strategic guidance document.
This document proposes further clarifications on:
• the application of reasonable diligence,
• the geolocation of parcels,
• the complexity of supply chains,
• definitions around the forest, agricultural use, agricultural planting
• special cases related to packaging.
3. Draft delegated act amending Annex I to the EU RD
The project is currently open for public consultation for a period of four weeks. Stakeholders can comment online.
Official translations into other EU languages will be available in the coming weeks.
To keep up to date, we invite you to consult regularly the European Commission's website dedicated to the EUDR. You will find the latest news, resources, and tools to support your compliance.
We also propose practical training to help you understand and enforce your regulatory obligations.