European Commission attempts to retrospectively curb “rampant bureaucracy” in the EUDR are “inadequate”, according to Germany’s leading timber industry organisation.
The German Sawmill and Timber Industry Association (DeSH) says the new simplification package for the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) falls far short of the goal of genuine simplification and continues to create uncertainty rather than clarity in practice.
Instead of solving structural problems, DeSH says the Commission is attempting to retrospectively curb the rampant bureaucracy with ever-new guidelines, FAQs, and exemptions.
“The fact that the FAQs are already in their fifth version speaks volumes,” said Julia Möbus, Managing Director of DeSH.
“Ninety-five pages are dedicated to explaining detailed questions – this hardly constitutes a genuine simplification.”
Ms Möbus says the goal of the EUDR – to combat global deforestation – is correct and important.
“However, the EU has taken a wrong turn on the way there. The regulation has developed into a bureaucratic behemoth that poses enormous challenges for the companies affected.”
DeSH says the package does contain some useful approaches, such as clarifications regarding the scope of application or adjustments to IT systems. But it maintains their impact remains limited and falls short of noticeably reducing the fundamental burden on businesses. Instead, additional guidelines and interpretive aids create new ambiguities, particularly regarding the practical implementation of the requirements.
“The association therefore continues to call for fundamental improvements to the EUDR. These include, in particular, a significant reduction in bureaucratic requirements, practical solutions for implementation in the supply chain, and genuine risk-based approaches that adequately consider regions without deforestation risk.”
