EU Deforestation Regulation: What the latest update means for your business
The European Commission has published a new draft Delegated Actto the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), introducing targeted changes to the scope of products covered by the landmark legislation. Published on 4 May 2026, the update is open for stakeholder consultation until 1 June 2026.
What has changed?
The draft act revises Annex I, the list of commodities and products subject to EUDR due diligence obligations. Key changes include:
- New product inclusions and removals based on a strengthened methodology weighing environmental benefits against compliance costs
- Scope clarifications for relevant products included with the commodities Oil Palm, Rubber, and Wood, including confirmation that bamboo, rattan, and similar materials are excluded
- Exclusions for used and second-hand products, supporting circular economy practices
Relief for operators through exemptions for product samples used in testing, packing materials suitable for repeated use, and marketing materials such as manuals and catalogues supplied free of charge
Why now?
The EUDR has faced criticism for its administrative complexity since its adoption in 2023. This update, building on an earlier draft that was never finalised, reflects stakeholder feedback and aims to reduce disproportionate compliance burdens while preserving the regulation's environmental integrity.
Who is this relevant to?
Any organisation placing relevant commodities such as cattle, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, soya, wood, or rubber and derived relevant products on the EU market needs to pay attention. The changes may alter whether your products fall in or out of scope.
Why it matters
The EUDR is one of the most significant trade-related environmental laws the EU has introduced. Getting the scope right determines where compliance obligations fall across global supply chains. This consultation provides an opportunity to influence the final text before it enters into force.
Deadline for submissions: 1 June 2026 via the European Commission's Have Your Say portal.
Take a deep dive into the update here:
Cover photo: Rubber plantation workers are honing their cutting skills. Preferred by Nature / Benjamin Holst. All rights reserved 2026.
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