FoodExperts outline the path to new deforestation legislation

The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) estimates that around 90% of global deforestation is caused by the expansion of agricultural land. And which area is the second-largest deforester worldwide? The European Union. The EU, second only to China, is responsible for clearing a jaw-dropping 203,000 hectares of forest in 2017.

That’s why the European Union is introducing stricter measures to reduce deforestation and forest degradation.

Which products will be affected by the new regulation?

EU Regulation 1115/2023 applies to all companies that place or market products that contain or are made from raw materials derived from palm oil, soy, cocoa, coffee, cattle, and rubber, as well as their derivatives.

When does the Regulation kick in?

For all operators (meaning any entity that places products on the market or exports them) and non-SME traders, the new regulation will come into force on 30th December 2024.

For SMEs, the Regulation will take effect from 30th June 2025.

What will the new Regulation require?

The Regulation sets out a series of obligations for operators and large traders. It requires them to have a Due Diligence System that they can share with competent authorities, as well keeping the rest of their supply chain informed about their due diligence.

This due diligence must cover three areas:

1. Data Collection

Before placing or exporting products to the market, operators must provide the following information:

• Product Description: Details of the product.
• Quantity: Volume or number of products.
• Country or region: Geographical location where the products are produced.
• Geolocation of plots: Specific coordinates of the production areas.
• Supplier data: Information about who supplies the products.
• Buyer data: Information about the recipient or buyer.
• Verifiable information in accordance with the legislation of the country of origin: clear data that supports legal compliance.

2. Risk Assesment

Risk AssesmentThe European Union will define the risk level of each country. Based on this level and the above Data Collection information, it will be necessary, in worst case scenarios, to complete standard documentation to determine and justify marketing in compliance with the Regulation.

3. Risk Mitigation

If the assessment reveals that there is a risk, the operator must take measures to reduce it and establish policies to prevent deforestation and forest degradation.

FoodExperts: simplifying the complexity of Regulation compliance

FoodExperts specialise in reducing supply chain complexity. Our platform offers you an all-in-one solution to manage the due diligence of your imported and exported products. With our tailor-made module, you can record and monitor the origin and geolocation of each product. Ensuring the full traceability of your supply chain, as required by current regulations.

Additionally, FoodExperts facilitate interaction with your suppliers, allowing them to directly upload certificates of good practices and any other relevant documentation. Automating these key processes guarantees compliance and also drastically reduces time and administrative costs.

Whether you’re justifying a risk analysis or implementing a mitigation plan, we’ll make sure you have all the tools you need at your fingertips.

Find out how FoodExperts can help you face the changing regulatory landscape with confidence, simplifying your processes and saving yourself time. Contact us at [email protected]