The EU Deforestation Regulation: Policy Implications and Research Frontiers

In June 2023, the European Union (EU) adopted its Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR)—a landmark policy designed to reduce global deforestation and forest degradation driven by EU consumption. Under the regulation, key commodities with the biggest impacts on deforestation—soy, cattle, palm oil, cocoa, coffee, wood, and natural rubber—cannot be placed on the EU market or exported unless they are free of deforestation and legally produced. The EUDR is scheduled for application in December 2025 and in June 2026 for small and micro enterprises. As the deadline quickly approaches, the EUDR is already reshaping trade dynamics, sustainability standards, and development priorities across the globe. Join us for this virtual event convening policymakers, development practitioners, researchers, and industry representatives to discuss the strategic implications of the EUDR and address critical implementation questions that will inform its success, with a particular focus on rural economies and smallholder agriculture. As countries and companies prepare for EUDR implementation, this seminar will examine how they can seize upon opportunities and mitigate risks associated with it. Leading voices from government, research, industry, and civil society will discuss how to ensure equitable and inclusive production aligned with EUDR requirements across diverse production systems, and how to address knowledge and technology gaps to support data-driven, smallholder-friendly solutions.