Dear relation,

Are you an importer of EUDR-goods: cacao, coffee, palm oil, rubber, soy, cattle or wood? Be aware of your due diligence obligations and read this email carefully.

We would like to inform you about new EU legislation that will affect the import and export of certain commodities: the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR – Regulation (EU) 2023/1115).

This regulation aims to combat global deforestation and forest degradation. The obligations apply from 30 December 2025 for large and medium-sized companies, and from 30 June 2026 for small and micro-enterprises.

Purpose of EUDR

Companies must demonstrate that their products are deforestation-free and comply with the relevant laws of the country of production. The regulation prohibits importing or exporting certain commodities and products that are linked to deforestation and forest degradation.

Which products are covered?

The EUDR applies to the following commodities and derived products listed in Annex I of the regulation:

• Cocoa
• Coffee
• Palm oil
• Rubber
• Soy
• Cattle
• Wood and wood products (including furniture, paper, etc.)

We advise you to check whether your products or tariff codes fall under these categories.

What will change for imports and exports?

From the date of application, importers and exporters must submit a Due Diligence Statement (DDS) in the EU EUDR information system before lodging a customs declaration.

The generated DDS reference number must be included in the customs declaration.
Without a valid DDS number, the customs authorities will not accept or release the declaration.

Each operator (any natural or legal person who places relevant products on the EU market for the first time or exports them from the EU) will also be required to implement a due diligence system that ensures:

• Traceability of the product to the plot of land where it was produced,
• confirmation that no deforestation took place, and
• risk assessment and mitigation procedures are in place.

Van der Helm can also submit the DDS for importers and exporters based in the EU. Please inform us in a timely manner, so we can prepare properly.

How should you prepare?

We recommend that you start preparing now by:

1. Checking whether your products are covered by the EUDR (by commodity type or CN code).
2. Mapping your supply chains to ensure your suppliers can provide geolocation data down to the plot level.
3. Adjusting your internal processes to meet due diligence and traceability requirements.
4. Coordinating in time with us, your customs broker, to define who will submit the DDS and how the reference number will be included in customs declarations.

In need of assistance?

We are closely following the implementation of the EUDR and the related enforcement by EU customs and competent authorities. If you have questions about how this regulation may affect your imports or exports, please contact your regular contact person at Van der Helm.