Defra has published an official update on the UK approach to tackling deforestation in global supply chains, 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.
- OPSS will act as Competent Authority for rubber and wood products.
- DAERA will act as Competent Authority for palm oil, soy, cocoa, cattle and coffee.
- When? UK is following the timeline set by the EU - applying in NI "in phases", from 30 December 2026 for large and medium operators and for all businesses importing/exporting wood products currently regulated under the EUTR, and 30 June 2027 for micro and small operators for all other commodities.
- What's next? Government will continue to work through the approach to enforcement at the NI border ahead of December. Detailed guidance on movement of goods from GB to NI and how businesses can comply with EUDR in NI will be published 'as soon as possible'.
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. Key principles of proposed approach:
- Initial focus on legality (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.
- Turnover threshold of >£1 million per year.
- Moving toward alignment across UK internal market and EU single market (including NI): intent for GB regulation to be aligned to EU commodity scope, due diligence, information (e.g. geolocation polygons) and reporting requirements.
- When? Legislation introducing the legality-based regime intended to be delivered in 2027. Legislative timeframe for introducing DCF standard is TBC.
- 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? 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 enforcement will practically work at the border pending guidance publication. 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.
