EU delays deforestation-linked beef and soya import rules

The European Parliament has delayed tougher rules on beef and feed imports linked to deforestation, such as soya, by another year.

Regulations are now set to be introduced from 30 December 2026 for large operators – and from 30 June 2027 for smaller businesses.

The European Parliament adopted changes to the EU Deforestation Regulations (EUDR) after it was informally agreed by EU member states on 4 December.

See also: Exceptional beef trade holds at £6.60/kg amid tight supplies

The delay has been introduced to help with the transition to the new scheme, which will make sure imports of certain products into the EU market come from deforestation-free areas.

EUDR will cover cattle, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, soya, wood, rubber, charcoal and printed paper.

To be compliant, cattle must not be raised on land which has been deforested since 31 December 2020.

German politician and EU parliament rapporteur, Christine Schneider, said: “The heart of the EU deforestation regulation remains intact.

“We are protecting forests that face a real risk of deforestation, while avoiding unnecessary obligations in areas where no such risk exists.

“This agreement takes the concerns of farmers, foresters and businesses seriously and ensures that the regulation can be implemented in a practical and workable way.”

The regulations will also apply in Northern Ireland as part of the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Effect on UK farmers

The EU market accounts for roughly 70% of UK beef exports and UK producers are likely to have to show compliance with the regulations, through feed sourcing, location and traceability records.

New regulations are also expected to affect the availability of certain feed ingredients coming to the UK, which may impact other livestock sectors, such as pigs and poultry.

BAB response

Jenny Brunton, senior European policy advisor at the British Agriculture Bureau, said: “For UK farmers and exporters who want to continue selling into the EU, the EUDR introduces new obligations around traceability, data collection, and due diligence.

“While the detailed reporting and compliance obligations will sit mainly with processors and exporters, farmers play a vital role in providing the information needed for EU market access.”

Non-compliance could result in fines, confiscation of goods, and temporary bans on trade.