ETTF reacts to the new EU project on deforestation-free commodities

05.11.2021

On Wednesday, October 27, members of the European Timber Trade Federation (ETTF) met online to discuss the new European Union regulation on "deforestation-free" commodities. After much discussion, the participants drafted a letter in reaction to this project, which they then sent to the European Commission and to CEI-Bois for transmission to the appropriate channels in Brussels.

New EU project on deforestation-free commodities

ETTF, which has been intensively involved in the discussion around the new regulation on deforestation-free supply chains, points out in this letter that since the entry into force of the EUTR, the European timber trade has gained solid experience in providing due diligence services when importing timber into the domestic market. ETTF states that it supports the objectives of the new regulation and is confident regarding its publication.

Nevertheless, through its letter, the European federation wished to submit some comments and suggestions, so that they can be taken into account when evaluating the proposed new legislation. Among them, the federation highlights some important points such as:

The consideration of sustainability certificates (FSC ® and PEFC) which should also play an important role in the new regulation. Third party certificates should remain an important tool in the due diligence process.
The reformulation of the definition of "forest degradation". This needs to be clearer to allow importers to take it into account as part of their due diligence.
The definition and specification of "high-risk or low-risk countries" should be more concrete and based on transparent criteria.
The strengthening, with the new legislation, of the structures that have put in place a comprehensive due diligence system over the past years (member states, national timber trade associations, service providers) as they are the backbone of due diligence for importers.

Read the letter