EU Delays Groundbreaking Anti-Deforestation Law Amid Global Pressures

The European Union has postponed the implementation of its anti-deforestation law by one year, drawing criticism from various stakeholders. The law, part of the EU's green agenda, targets imports linked to forest destruction. It now mandates compliance from large companies by December 2026 and smaller firms by June 2027.

The European Union has approved a significant delay to its anti-deforestation law originally set for December 2024. The decision came on Thursday, after the EU Council confirmed the year-long postponement had passed its final legal hurdle.

This unprecedented regulation aims to halt imports of cocoa, palm oil, and other commodities linked to deforestation, requiring exporters to demonstrate their products' sustainability. The move aligns with the EU's environmental agenda, yet faces opposition from major trade partners like Brazil, Indonesia, and the U.S., citing economic burdens.

Concerns about IT systems readiness prompted a second delay proposal in September. Major food companies including Nestle and Ferrero express alarm over potential forest damage due to policy postponements. The law seeks to curb the 10% of global deforestation driven by EU consumption of these imports.

(With inputs from agencies.)