Shifting Dynamics in Europe: Readiness for EUDR Implementation - IPOC 2024

Shifting Dynamics in Europe: Readiness for EUDR Implementation 

It was an honor to deliver the keynote address at the 20th Indonesian Palm Oil Conference (IPOC), held in Bali from November 6-8. With over 2,000 participants from around the world, this year’s IPOC gathered industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders focused on the future of palm oil and sustainable trade. My presentation, “Shifting Dynamics in Europe: Readiness for EUDR Implementation,” explored how the new EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is poised to reshape global supply chains.

Shifting Dynamics in Europe: Readiness for EUDR Implementation 

These are some of the points of my keynote. Do you want to have my full talk? Contact me. 

  • EUDR Timeline: Europe is most likely introducing a 12-month delay, potentially moving the application date to December 2025. However, major EU players like France and Germany, supported by NGOs and corporations, are pushing to keep the timeline tight, urging swift compliance.

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  • Implementation Status:
    • Clear Guidance for Stakeholders: The EU has released updated FAQs and guidance documents to aid national authorities and operators in navigating the EUDR.
    • International Cooperation: The EU has launched partnerships with producing countries, aiming to offer technical assistance and strengthen capacities to meet EUDR standards.
    • Key Challenges: Limited resources for enforcement, inconsistent readiness across EU states, and high compliance costs for SMEs and smallholders.

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  • Critical Challenges:
    • Lack of Harmonization: Differences in enforcement across EU states could create uneven impacts.
    • Supply Chain Traceability: Reliable data collection and traceability remain a challenge, especially in third-country markets.
  • Recommendations for Moving Forward:
    • Benchmarking and Testing: Producers should engage in “dry runs” of their supply chain processes to identify and mitigate risks early.
    • Enhanced Collaboration: Calls for an EU commodities-based technical committee to provide clear and consistent guidance.
    • Close Engagement with National Authorities: Building strong communication channels with competent EU authorities will be essential for achieving compliance.

The IPOC keynote underscored that readiness for the EUDR is not just a European responsibility; it’s a shared global challenge. We need collaborative action, transparency, and a commitment to sustainable practices that respect local communities and support smallholders.

Do you want to know more of my keynote and what I shared with the IPOC audience? Contact me and i’ll share my full talk. 

Shifting Dynamics in Europe: Readiness for EUDR Implementation 

Author

PNR