SWIFTING DINAMICS IN EUROPE: READINESS FOR EUDR IMPLEMENTATION 

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IPOC, November 2024

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Pietro Paganini had the privilege of delivering the keynote address at the 20th Indonesian Palm Oil Conference (IPOC), held in Bali from November 6-8.This annual conference is organized by Gapki, the Indonesian Palm Oil Association. With over 2,000 participants from around the world, this year’s IPOC gathered industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders focused on the future of palm oil and sustainable trade. His presentation, “Shifting Dynamics in Europe: Assessing EU-Wide Readiness for EUDR Implementation,” explored how the new EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is poised to reshape global supply chains. 

Below are some key points from his keynote: 

• EUDR Timeline: Europe is most likely to introduce a 12-month delay, potentially moving the application date to December 2025. However, major EU players like France and Germany, supported by NGOs and corporations, are advocating to maintain the original timeline and push for swift compliance.  
• Implementation Status:
  • Clear Guidance for Stakeholders: The EU has released updated FAQs and guidance documents to support national authorities and operators in navigating the EUDR.
  • International Cooperation: The EU has established partnerships with producing countries, aiming to offer technical assistance and build capacities to meet EUDR standards.
  • Key Challenges: Limited resources for enforcement, inconsistent readiness across EU states, and high compliance costs for SMEs and smallholders.
• Critical Challenges:
  • Lack of Harmonization: Differences in enforcement across EU states could create uneven impacts.
  • Supply Chain Traceability: Reliable data collection and traceability remain challenging, especially in third-country markets.
• Recommendations for Moving Forward:
  • Benchmarking and Testing: Producers should engage in “dry runs” of their supply chain processes to identify and mitigate risks early.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: Calls for an EU commodities-based technical committee to provide clear and consistent guidance.
  • Close Engagement with National Authorities: Building strong communication channels with EU competent authorities will be essential for achieving compliance.

The IPOC keynote underscored that readiness for the EUDR is not just a European responsibility; it’s a shared global challenge. Collaborative action, transparency, and a commitment to sustainable practices that respect local communities and support smallholders are essential for progress! 

Read EURD: Welcoming the EC’s guidelines and the proposed 1-year phase-in >>>