The European Parliament has approved a one-year deferral in the application of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). The enforcement date for large companies is the 30^th of December 2025 and for micro- and small enterprises is the 30^th of June 2026.

Following concerns about compliance challenges from various stakeholders, including member states and industry representatives, the decision was supported by 371 votes. The postponement aims to provide businesses sufficient time to adapt their operations to the regulation’s requirements without disrupting international trade.

In addition to the delay, the Parliament endorsed amendments to the EUDR’s country risk classification system. This framework categorises countries according to their deforestation risk levels, determining the due diligence obligations for companies sourcing raw materials. A new “no-risk” category has been introduced, covering countries with stable or growing forest areas, easing the requirements for businesses operating in these regions.

Looking ahead, stakeholders anticipate further discussions to refine the EUDR’s scope and implementation. The new timeline provides a critical window for industries and governments to collaborate in order to achieve compliance without compromising trade or environmental goals.

Inclusion of Leather in the EUDR

The leather industry, represented by UNIC – Italian Tanneries and Cotance, has been vocal about the operational challenges posed by the EUDR, particularly regarding cowhide.

They argue that since cowhide is not a driver of deforestation driver (according to a study from the Sant’Anna Institute), it should be excluded from Annex I, which lists regulated commodities. While the postponement offers a temporary reprieve, the industry’s long-term goal remains the removal of cowhide from the scope of the regulation.


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