This provides important clarity on the regulatory direction for all actors working towards deforestation-free supply chains. 

While the Commission has assessed the impact on micro and small operators in low-risk countries that place products directly on the EU market, the Fair Trade Movement regrets the absence of a broader scope that takes into account the specific challenges faced by the 570 million smallholder farmers worldwide. Due to the structure of global supply chains, these producers are often unable to place products directly on the EU market, yet they are significantly affected by the EUDR. Stronger ambition is needed to ensure that the implementation of the Regulation adequately reflects their realities and does not risk sideline them from supply chains.

The FTAO commends the Commission’s recognition of key concerns raised by Fair Trade actors, including limited access to geolocation tools, administrative complexity and the costs of meeting legality requirements. While progress on geolocation has been significant, additional support remains essential to help smallholders comply with legality criteria, which continue to represent a major barrier for many producers who risk being excluded from the EU market.

As Virginia Enssle, International and Institutional Relations Manager at FTAO, states: “The clock is ticking, and the EU should now focus its efforts on supporting inclusive implementation of the Regulation, rather than continuing to revisit its framework. While we welcome that the EUDR remains on track, we encourage the Commission to push for a stronger focus on supply chain responsibility, ensuring operators and public authorities enable compliance instead of shifting costs onto producers.”

The Fair Trade Movement reaffirms its strong commitment to ending deforestation while safeguarding the rights and livelihoods of farmers and workers worldwide. To achieve this, the meaningful inclusion of smallholder farmers in EU decision-making processes is essential. The ongoing challenges in implementing the EUDR underscore the risks of imposing significant obligations on producers without adequately involving them in shaping the rules that affect their livelihoods.

We urge the European Commission and Member States to further strengthen support measures, including targeted technical assistance, adequate financial support and inclusive partnerships between the EU and producer countries, to ensure that smallholders can remain active participants in sustainable value chains.

Get in touch

For more information, please contact Virginia Enssle, International and Institutional Manager at the FTAO, at enssle@fairtrade-advocacy.org