Asean exporters have 3 months to act before Brussels finalises anti-deforestation rules
Asean businesses have an opportunity to bring in some final changes to the deforestration regulation which will impact their supply chain
ONCE again, the European Union has hit the brakes on its flagship anti-deforestation law. Enforcement has been pushed back by a year, now to begin at the end of 2026 for larger companies.
After heavy lobbying and political bargaining, this pause may tempt South-east Asian exporters to relax, but the extra time merely delays what is coming. The first three months of 2026 will be their last, best chance to shape how the regulation lands.
Indecision in Brussels
A broader course-correction in Brussels has been underway. Political and economic pressures prompted a rethink and the formation of an alliance between centre-right and far-right Members of the European Parliament, forcing a halt to the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
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