European Parliament Backs One-Year Delay to EU Anti-Deforestation Law

Overview

• MEPs approved the postponement 402–250, with right and far-right groups in favor, a split in Renew, and the left opposed.
• New compliance dates shift to December 30, 2026 for large operators and June 30, 2027 for micro and small firms.
• The decision still requires a final consultation with EU member states before taking effect, and a formal review is slated for April 2026.
• The regulation covers products linked to post-December 2020 deforestation and requires geolocation and satellite evidence for goods such as beef, soy, palm oil, cocoa, coffee, timber and rubber.
• The Commission cited IT and data-capacity constraints under pressure from industry and trading partners, while environmental groups denounced the delay and companies including Nestlé, Ferrero and Olam Agri voiced support for full implementation.