International Trade Centre Updates Handbooks on European Union Deforestation Regulation

Strategic Insights -

The International Trade Centre (ITC) has published updated handbooks on the European Union Deforestation-free Products Regulation (EUDR) to help businesses comply with the regulation. The new editions incorporate updates from the latest guidance published by the European Commission, including a new requirement for downstream due diligence. Three new handbooks have been launched to address emerging needs, focusing on legality compliance, voluntary sustainability standards, and step-by-step guidance for large downstream operators. These resources aim to support companies of all sizes in taking action to avoid trade disruptions and contribute to deforestation-free value chains.

Key Takeaways:

  • The International Trade Centre (ITC) has updated its series of handbooks on the European Union Deforestation-free Products Regulation (EUDR) to reflect the latest regulatory developments.
  • The updated handbooks now include guidance on downstream due diligence, legality compliance, and the role of voluntary sustainability standards in EUDR compliance.
  • Three new handbooks have been launched to support businesses in meeting EUDR requirements before the regulation takes effect on 30 December 2025.
  • The handbooks offer step-by-step guidance, practical business scenarios, and recommendations to assess risks and prepare due diligence statements.
  • The targeted companies are large downstream operators, business support organizations, and policymakers who need guidance on meeting EUDR obligations.
  • The ITC handbooks aim to empower companies of all sizes to take action and contribute to deforestation-free value chains.
  • The regulation applies to key commodities including coffee, cocoa, palm oil, cattle, rubber, soya, wood, and selected derived products.

Statistics:

  • The EUDR regulation will take effect on 30 December 2025.
  • The ITC handbooks are available for free download on the dedicated page: Handbooks on the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
  • The series now comprises nine handbooks covering a range of topics, from introductory guidance to step-by-step guidance for large downstream operators.
  • The targeted commodities under the regulation include coffee, cocoa, palm oil, cattle, rubber, soya, wood, and selected derived products.
  • The EUDR applies to businesses within and outside the European Union.

Sources:

  • [International Trade Centre press release]
  • [European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) website]