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Commission publishes simplification review of EU Deforestation Regulation

On the 4th of May, the European Commission published a comprehensive package of measures aimed at simplifying the revised EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and ensuring a smooth and effective implementation, following the agreement of the co legislators in December last year. With this package, the Commission delivers on its commitment to the European Parliament and the Council to conduct a simplification review and to prepare stakeholders for the Regulation’s entry into application later this year. In this email we provide a high-level overview of the comprehensive package of measures.

What does the package consist of? 

The package consists of:

• a report to the European Parliament and the Council;
• updated guidance and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs);
• a draft delegated act amending the product scope of the EUDR; and
• an updated draft implementing act on the EUDR Information System. 

A report to the European Parliament and the Council

According to the report, the Commission expects that the combined simplification measures will reduce annual compliance costs by approximately 75% compared to the original EUDR, while maintaining its core policy objectives. The report also outlines planned trade facilitation tools, such as repositories of producer country legislation and certification schemes, and notes that the EUDR is already driving greater traceability and transparency in global supply chains. 

Updated guidance and FAQs

The updated guidance and FAQs address key operational issues raised by stakeholders, including obligations for downstream supply chains, the simplified regime for micro and small primary operators, as well as practical questions on e commerce and geolocation requirements. Updated supply chain infographics provide illustrative examples to support harmonized enforcement across the EU.

A draft delegated act amending the product scope of the EUDR

The draft delegated act introduces targeted changes to the EUDR product scope. Proposed amendments include the addition of certain downstream products (such as soluble coffee and specific palm oil derivatives), as well as exclusions and exemptions for products such as leather, retreaded tyres, samples, certain packaging materials, used products, and waste. The draft delegated act is open for public feedback until 1 June 2026, and the consultation page will soon be available on the Have Your Say portal.

An updated draft implementing act on the EUDR Information System

The Commission is updating the EUDR Information System to reflect the revised framework and improve user friendliness. Key developments include a simplified declaration for micro and small primary operators, updated technical specifications for automated interfaces, a contingency mechanism for system outages, and a voluntary grouping functionality introduced in response to business feedback. 

Next steps

The Commission has reiterated its focus on facilitating implementation and ensuring a successful entry into application of the EUDR on 30 December 2026. Meanwhile businesses are recommended to continue their preparations for the application of EUDR. In that regard, we will continue to closely monitor the developments and inform your accordingly. If appreciated, we would be pleased to discuss the implications for your organization.