Defra has published an official update on the UK approach to deforestation, featuring confirmation that the EUDR will apply in NI and an outline of the proposed approach and next steps for GB deforestation regulations.
Read the summary of what we know so far, along with next steps for Government and BRC.
EUDR in NI update
- What? The EU Deforestation Regulations (EUDR) will apply in Northern Ireland for all businesses importing/exporting in-scope products.
- When? UK is following the timeline set by the EU - applying in NI "in phases" from 30 December 2026.
- What's next? Government will continue to work through the approach to enforcement at the NI border ahead of December.
GB Deforestation Regulations update
- What? Government will take forward a GB regulatory approach to deforestation-risk commodities under the framework established via existing primary legislation - Schedule 17 of the 2021 Environment Act and UK Timber Regulations.
- Initial focus on illegal deforestation only, but with a direction of travel toward a deforestation-free standard (legal and illegal deforestation and land conversion) that is fully aligned to the EU. This would require additional primary legislation.
- Moving toward NI/EU alignment stated as a primary aim - i.e. intent for GB regulation to be aligned to EU commodity scope and information requirements (e.g. including a requirement to provide geolocation polygons for legality).
- When? Government intend to move 'as quickly as possible', with enforcement potentially as early as 2027.
- How? Defra will publish a consultation on the details of the proposed GB regulation 'later this year'. We've heard this could be prior to parliamentary summer recess (23 July), or by the end of this year at the latest.
- What's next? Written Ministerial Statement to be published shortly. Accompanying speech by Emma Reynolds, Defra Secretary of State, on the UK approach to deforestation as part of LCAW Nature Day. Further details on the consultation process are TBC.
Next steps for BRC
- On EUDR in NI: We recognise the compliance deadline in NI is extremely tight, particularly with details for how 'phased' enforcement will practically work at the border remaining TBC. We will continue to engage Government on retailer challenges and the need for further clarity ahead of December 2026.
- On GB Regulations: We will share further updates on the timetable for consultation and opportunities for BRC member engagement when clear.
- We have invited Defra officials to provide an update and answer questions directly at the next EUDR Working Group session on Wednesday 1 July - final agenda and Defra attendance TBC. Email Lou to register for the session.
