Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 on deforestation-free products (Deforestation Regulation)

Overview

The Deforestation Regulation requires companies placing relevant commodities (cattle, cocoa, coffee, oil palm, rubber, soya, wood) and derived products on the EU market to exercise due diligence to ensure they are deforestation-free and legally produced. Operators must collect geolocation data, verify legal compliance with the country of origin’s laws, and provide due diligence statements to competent authorities. The regulation imposes penalties for non-compliance including fines up to 4% of annual turnover and prohibitions on placing products on the market. Applies from 30 December 2025 (large operators) and 30 June 2026 (SMEs).

This eu regulation (32023R1115) is part of the EU’s legal framework governing environment. EU environmental law establishes rules for environmental protection, including measures to combat deforestation, promote sustainability, and ensure supply chain transparency.

Type: EU Regulation

CELEX Number: 32023R1115

Date of Effect: See the official publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Key Provisions

Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 on deforestation-free products (Deforestation Regulation) establishes the core legal framework in this field. For specific provisions, articles, and implementing measures, consult the full text on EUR-Lex.

Significance

This legislation represents a key component of EU law in the area of environment. It reflects the EU’s approach to harmonization and regulatory policy within the internal market framework.