Expected effects on Brazil from the EU Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products: Lessons from the Timber Sector

Abstract

The introduction of the European Union Regulation for Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR) in 2023 reflects the EU's commitment to sustainable trade practices in global trade. However, this regulation raises concerns for key partner nations like Brazil, a major provider of timber products to the EU. Using Brazil’s native timber sector as a case study, we examine the implications of the EUDR on the country’s ability to comply with international sustainability demands. We provided a closer look at how the EUDR main criteria may affect Brazil's natural forest timber sector for better decision-making, preparation, and management of the regulatory landscape. Opportunities, challenges, and gaps were presented in comprehensive frameworks. As the new regulation will be implemented by late 2025, close collaboration, diplomatic initiatives, and unified efforts will be required to develop a cooperation framework that benefits both sustainable production and trade. Close monitoring of the evolving impacts of the regulation on timber and co-product exports from producing nations will be necessary. We expect our findings to have implications for the timber sector and beyond.