Delayed, simplified, but not off the table: the EUDR is coming

The European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is coming – delayed and simplified in part, but unchanged in essence. From 30 December 2026, companies worldwide must prove that wood and wood products imported into or exported from the EU are deforestation free and have been produced legally.

Hardwood specialist Danzer has been carefully preparing for this moment for a long time.

The European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) was originally due to enter into force at the end of 2024. Following criticism from companies and trading partners as well as EU member states regarding its practical feasibility, implementation of the regulation was postponed twice and a number of provisions simplified. However, this does not alter the essence of the new legislation: anyone placing an in-scope wood product on the EU market for the first time must provide proof of its origin and legal production – right down to geolocation data.

International hardwood company Danzer, which uses wood from temperate forests in the northern hemisphere, is already fully prepared for the new regulation and is actively supporting its partners in meeting these requirements.

‘The simplification affects the procedure, not the standards of the regulation,’ said Cathy-Lynn Danzer, sustainability and compliance counsel at Danzer. ‘The core rationale behind the EUDR remains unchanged.’

The scope of the EUDR extends far beyond traditional forestry and timber management to encompass furniture, packaging, and veneers. Anywhere that wood is processed, the regulation can apply – regardless of where the raw material originates or where the final product is manufactured. Companies that do not supply the EU directly could also find themselves impacted: European customers are already requesting details on origin, legality and compliance documentation.

Danzer began integrating geolocation data, risk documentation, and reference numbers into its internal systems at an early stage. The company is working closely with EU authorities, NGOs, and industry partners to develop practical implementation solutions for the EUDR. With every delivery, it provides all relevant data: from product descriptions and countries of origin to geolocation data and, where required, the due diligence statement reference number.

‘Danzer has been preparing for this moment for a long time and is also ready to assist its customers with any EUDR inquiries,’ explained Cathy-Lynn. ‘Geolocation data and risk documentation are integral parts of our deliveries.’

Walter Mooslechner, president of Danzer Veneer Europe, added: ‘If the regulatory framework evolves further down the line, Danzer is fully prepared to respond accordingly.’

Danzer supplies big name industrial customers in the furniture and consumer goods sectors in more than 70 countries. Its partners include numerous companies that are directly subject to the EUDR. For them, what matters most is that the origin, legality, and deforestation free status of every shipment is fully documented, without any gaps.

‘Danzer's reliable data, proactive support, and digital maturity have made our EUDR preparations significantly easier. Knowing that Danzer takes sustainability and traceability just as seriously as we do gives us confidence in navigating these new requirements,’ confirmed Malin Grännö, sustainability manager at Swedish company Ceos Fritzoe AB.