The deforestation: Brussels delays new EU law by one year. The regulation, designed to ensure that key commodities such as coffee, cocoa, soy, and timber are “deforestation-free,” will now come into force in 2026 instead of 2025.
This postponement reflects the complexity of adapting entire supply chains, while highlighting the ongoing debate on how to balance environmental goals with business and trade realities.
A regulation under debate
The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) aims to reduce CO₂ emissions and protect global ecosystems. According to the FAO, agriculture accounts for nearly 90% of global deforestation (source).
At Qahwa Limited, we have already explored the connection between coffee and environmental sustainability (link) and the impact of European policies on the coffee supply chain (link).
The Brussels decision to delay the law fits into a broader process where environmental protection must coexist with the operational needs of businesses and international markets.
Implications for the coffee sector
For coffee companies, the one-year delay represents both a relief and a challenge. On one side, it offers time to invest in traceability systems and strengthen collaboration with suppliers. On the other, scrutiny from institutions and consumers remains high, with a growing demand for transparent and sustainable sourcing practices.
Research from KPMG suggests that adapting early to the regulation could become a competitive advantage for businesses that anticipate compliance requirements. More details on the regulation are available from the European Commission (source).
Deforestation: Brussels delays new EU law by one year and now we looking ahead
The EU decision should not be seen as a step back but as an additional preparation period. By 2026, producers and distributors will need to prove that their products do not contribute to deforestation.
For coffee, this means reinforcing origin monitoring, ensuring responsible sourcing, and safeguarding the social and environmental value of producing communities.