The European Union has approved a second consecutive one-year delay in implementing its landmark European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), citing technical concerns, while critics warn that the postponement and additional exemptions could weaken the law’s effectiveness.
On November 26, the European Parliament voted 402 to 250 in favor of an amendment delaying the EUDR and introducing several exemptions. Once implemented, the law will prohibit EU countries from importing commodities such as soy, beef, cocoa, and palm oil linked to deforestation occurring after 2020.
If ratified, the EUDR’s new start date will be December 30, 2026, with an additional grace period for small businesses until June 30, 2027. Originally, the law was scheduled to take effect at the end of 2024, but it was postponed to December 2025 last year.
Critics argue that repeated delays undermine the law. Nicole Polsterer, a campaigner at Netherlands-based nonprofit Fern, described the ongoing amendments as “death by a thousand cuts,” noting that attempts to revise or weaken the law contradict its strong democratic mandate.
The European Parliament also introduced further changes to the original regulation. Printed books and newspapers have been removed from its scope, easing restrictions for the forestry industry. Small operators from countries classified as “low risk,” including EU nations, the U.S., China, Australia, and Canada, will largely be exempt.
The decision has prompted concern among businesses and NGOs. On November 17, dozens of organizations—including Nestlé—warned that further delays create market instability. WWF described the situation as “chaotic and unmanageable.”
Additionally, the parliament proposed a “simplification review,” requesting the EU Commission to assess the law and report by April 2026. Environmental NGO Earthsight cautioned that this could trigger another round of amendments, adding further uncertainty for companies preparing for compliance.
The EU’s three branches of government will now enter informal negotiations over the proposed delays and revisions, after which the final text will return to the parliament for ratification. Companies that had already begun adapting to the EUDR will face additional costs and logistical challenges due to the postponement.