On Tuesday 28 April, several European agricultural and industrial sectors called on the EU institutions to urgently simplify the Deforestation Regulation, which is considered too complex and difficult to implement (see other news).
Stakeholders from Europe’s agriculture, livestock, forestry, forest-based and vegetable oil industries (Copa-Cogeca, FEDIOL, FEFAC, etc.) believe that the legislation threatens their competitiveness. They criticise the lack of legal certainty and compliance requirements that are deemed unrealistic. In their view, administrative obligations, particularly those relating to data reporting, place a heavy burden on operators. These constraints could lead to market disruption and supply shortages.
Due to come into force in early 2026, the legislation has already been postponed for one year, following a decision made at the end of 2025. However, the organisations believe that these modifications are still insufficient. They have high expectations for the review scheduled to take place by 30 April. The European Commission is invited to propose targeted simplifications. The organisations say they remain committed to helping find a balanced solution. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)