EUDR compliance guide: what businesses need to know about the EU deforestation regulation.

Authored by: Vera den Adel - Junior Customs & Trade Advisor, Gaston Schul

What is the purpose of the EUDR regulation?

The EUDR, formally known as Regulation (EU) 2023/1115, is designed to ensure that products placed on or exported from the EU market are deforestation-free. Its main objectives:

• Prevent goods linked to deforestation from entering or leaving the EU market
• Reduce CO₂ emissions by an estimated 32 million metric tonnes annually
• Ensure supply chains are not only transparent, but traceable – right down to the plot of land

Which products are affected by the EUDR?

The regulation targets seven key commodities and the products derived from them:

1. Cattle
2. Cocoa
3. Coffee
4. Palm oil
5. Rubber
6. Soy
7. Wood

From chocolate bars to leather handbags and wooden furniture, if a product contains one of these raw materials (and the corresponding HS code listed in Annex I), it falls under the EUDR. Where multiple commodities are included, only the primary deforestation-linked ingredient needs to be verified as deforestation-free.

Who the EUDR regulation applies to

In short: any business placing or exporting these products within the EU.

This includes:

• Operators: Businesses that place relevant products on the market for the first time or export them
• Traders: All other businesses involved in the supply chain, such as wholesalers or retailers

Both SMEs (micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises) and larger companies are affected, but the compliance requirements vary. Non-SME operators bear the greatest responsibility, including full due diligence and electronic submission of risk statements.

What companies must do to comply with EUDR

To place a product on the market (or export it), companies must prove:

• The product is deforestation-free
• It was produced in accordance with local laws in the country of origin
• It is covered by a due diligence statement submitted via the EU’s digital platform

Operators and traders must provide all necessary information to the EU and establish a Due Diligence System (DDS), which includes three key steps:

1. Information gathering: E.g. product type, quantity, geolocation of production plots
2. Risk assessment: Based on factors such as country risk classification (high, standard, or low), indigenous rights, and history of non-compliance
3. Risk mitigation: If risks are identified, appropriate action must be taken before products can be placed on the market

What the EUDR means for SMEs

SMEs benefit from a more gradual introduction to the regulation:

• Extended compliance deadline: 30 June 2026
• Reduced due diligence if another operator has already carried it out
• Exemption from annual reporting obligations
• Fewer inspections by competent authorities

However, SMEs must still record and track supplier data and be prepared to respond if any compliance risks emerge.

How to use the EUDR information system for compliance

All due diligence statements must be submitted electronically through the EUDR Information System. This platform enables companies to:

• Upload geolocation data (via map drawing or GeoJSON files)
• Track submissions and compliance status
• Reference due diligence performed earlier in the supply chain

EUDR timeline and key compliance deadlines

The EUDR entered into force on 29 June 2023, but key compliance dates are:

• 30 December 2025: Deadline for large and medium-sized companies
• 30 June 2026: Deadline for micro and small companies

By 30 June 2025, the EU will publish a list of high- and low-risk countries. This classification will influence the level of due diligence required. Products from low-risk countries may be subject to simplified checks.

Why the EUDR regulation matters for your supply chain

The EUDR is not just another compliance requirement – it represents a shift in how global supply chains operate. It demands transparency, traceability, and environmental accountability at every level.

For businesses, staying compliant is essential. But staying competitive now also means being able to demonstrate credible sustainability practices.

How Gaston Schul helps your business meet EUDR compliance with confidence

Getting ready for the EUDR can be challenging – especially when it comes to classification, documentation, and due diligence. At Gaston Schul, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way with practical, hands-on support tailored to your business.

Here’s how we help:

• Discovery call: We start with a one-to-one consultation to understand your supply chain and identify where support is needed
• EUDR goods check: We assess whether your products are correctly classified and determine if they fall under EUDR requirements
• Monthly reporting: You receive clear, regular reports showing which of your shipments are affected by the EUDR
• Compliance advisory: We support you in setting up EUDR procedures and assist in completing and submitting your due diligence statements via the EU portal

Whether you're just starting or refining your compliance strategy, we’ll help you stay ahead of regulation – and risk.