EU Parliament Delays and Reviews Anti-Deforestation Regulation (EUDR): Implications for Wood Flooring Exporters

The European Parliament recently voted on the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), passing a proposal to delay its implementation by one year and conduct a simplification review. The vote concluded with 402 in favor, 250 against, and 8 abstentions.

This delay moves the full enforcement of EUDR from the end of 2025 to December 30, 2026, for medium and large enterprises, while micro and small businesses receive an extended transition period until June 30, 2027. The European Commission will review the regulation in the first half of 2026, focusing on operational feasibility and administrative burden.

As a professional international wood flooring supplier, Kelaiwood closely follows EU market developments. This regulatory adjustment significantly affects the global timber and wood flooring export industry.

What is EUDR and Why It Matters for Wood Flooring Exporters

EUDR (Deforestation-free Products Regulation) aims to prevent products linked to deforestation or forest degradation from entering the EU market. Covered products include timber, wood products, wood flooring, furniture, beef, soy, palm oil, cocoa, coffee, and rubber.

For wood flooring exporters, compliance requirements include:

– Plot-level traceability of raw materials

– Due diligence documentation

– Legal and deforestation-free certification

– Risk of import rejection or penalties for non-compliance

Impact of the Delay and Simplification

1. Critical Buffer Period: Exporters gain additional time to organize supply chains, collect legal documentation, and establish compliance systems.

2. Reduced Burden for SMEs: Only the “first placing” operator must submit due diligence, reducing repeated reporting for downstream traders and distributors.

3. Compliance Direction Remains: The EU’s goal of zero-deforestation supply chains remains unchanged, emphasizing sustainable and transparent sourcing.

Kelaiwood’s Perspective

As a leading international wood flooring supplier, Kelaiwood views the delay as an opportunity to strengthen compliance and sustainability practices. We continue to:

– Audit and trace upstream raw material sources

– Build robust supply chain traceability systems

– Standardize export documentation and due diligence processes

– Position sustainability and legal compliance as core competitive advantages

Conclusion

The European Parliament’s decision to delay and simplify EUDR implementation offers exporters a valuable preparation window. Compliance remains a critical factor for accessing the EU market. Wood flooring companies that proactively enhance transparency, legality, and sustainability will secure a competitive edge in Europe.

Kelaiwood remains committed to providing timely industry insights and supporting partners in navigating evolving EU regulations.