Overview
- Lawmakers voted 402–250 to push the start date to Dec. 30, 2026 for large operators, with micro and small firms given until June 30, 2027.
- Adopted changes keep due diligence with operators first placing products on the market, remove separate filings for downstream traders, and introduce a one‑off simplified declaration for smaller operators.
- Both Parliament and Council dropped a proposed grace period for sanctions, aligning on a tougher immediate enforcement approach once the law starts.
- Members requested a simplification review by April 30, 2026 that could prompt additional amendments and extend legal and compliance uncertainty.
- Trilogue negotiations and formal ratification must proceed before publication in the EU’s Official Journal makes the new timetable and adjustments legally binding, as businesses like Nestlé and NGOs including WWF, Fern and Earthsight voice opposing concerns.