Ireland’s Exporters Face Countdown to EU Deforestation Regulation
As the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) edges closer to enforcement, Irish exporters are being urged to act now, or risk falling behind.
The regulation, which aims to prevent deforestation-linked goods from entering the EU market, will apply from 30 December 2025 for medium and large operators, and 30 June 2026 for small and micro-enterprises.
For Ireland, a country with deep agricultural roots and a strong export profile, the stakes are high. While the European Commission has designated Ireland a low-risk country, meaning simplified procedures for some operators, the compliance burden remains significant.
“Ireland’s exporters are in a strong position, but that doesn’t mean we’re off the hook,” says Jocelyn Burke, Compliance Manager at Customs Support Group Ireland. “The EUDR is about proving sustainability, not just claiming it. That means traceability, documentation, and readiness for audit.”
What the Regulation Requires
Under the EUDR, companies must prove that their products are both deforestation-free and legally produced. This involves:
- Collecting geolocation data for production sites
- Assessing deforestation risk across supply chains
- Submitting due diligence statements via the EU’s central IT platform
- Maintaining audit-ready records for at least five years
Authorities will have the power to audit these statements and verify the underlying data. Penalties for non-compliance are steep. Under Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115, Member States must impose sanctions that are effective, proportionate, and dissuasive, including:
- Fines of up to 4% of annual EU turnover
- Confiscation of non-compliant goods
- Temporary exclusion from public procurement
“These aren’t theoretical risks,” Burke warns. “Blocked shipments, reputational damage, and lost contracts are very real outcomes for companies that don’t prepare.”
Sector Spotlight: Agri-Food and Forestry
Ireland’s agri-food sector is particularly exposed. From beef and dairy to cocoa and coffee, many Irish exports fall under the EUDR’s scope. Even processed goods, like chocolate, furniture, and paper, are affected if they contain regulated commodities.
While micro and small operators may benefit from one-off declarations, especially where national databases already hold relevant data, larger firms must prepare for full compliance. That includes Irish subsidiaries of multinational brands, as well as domestic producers supplying EU markets.
Turning Compliance into Competitive Advantage
While the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) presents challenges, it also opens doors.
To Burke, this is also an opportunity: “EUDR is a chance for Irish exporters to lead on sustainability. Those who invest now in traceability and supplier verification won’t just meet the standard, they’ll set it.”
To support operators and traders, the European Commission has launched the Information System of the Deforestation Regulation, a centralised hub offering practical tools and training: https://green-forum.ec.europa.eu/nature-and-biodiversity/deforestation-regulation-implementation/information-system-deforestation-regulation_en
Key Features:
- Due Diligence Submission Tool – Enables online filing of EUDR-required statements
- Training Platform (“Acceptance Server”) – Includes virtual sessions to familiarise users with the system
- Multilingual Documentation – User guides and technical materials available in all EU languages
- Bulk Management via API – Designed for larger operators managing high volumes of statements
Companies are strongly encouraged to leverage these resources to align internal processes with EUDR requirements. For tailored guidance, our compliance experts are available to support your team.
Industry bodies such as IIFA and FTA Ireland are already mobilising support. But the message is clear: Enforcement is imminent. Readiness is no longer optional.
