"EU to tweak product list under deforestation rules without reopening text", 10 February 2026

The European Commission has said it will not reopen the EU’s deforestation rules again, but will instead propose targeted tweaks to simplify implementation and adjust the list of products covered by the regulation.

During a closed-door meeting on Tuesday, the Commission reassured industry representatives and non-profits that the core text of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) – set to enter into force in December 2026 following another delay – would not be revised in April, two participants told Euractiv...

However, the Commission said it would present a simplification package by the end of April, as agreed last year. This will include a delegated act amending the annex specifying which products fall under the rules, the sources added. Among the changes under consideration is the possible inclusion of soap made with palm oil and instant coffee – products not currently covered by the regulation. The delegated act is expected to be opened for public feedback in late March or early April.

The Commission also confirmed that the benchmarking system classifying countries by deforestation risk – from low to high – will not be reviewed this year, contrary to initial plans to align it with the latest FAO forest data. Instead, the update will be postponed until the rules take effect.

The possible exclusion of leather, which some lawmakers in the European Parliament pushed for in December, remains unresolved and would ultimately be a political decision, two industry sources said.

Books, magazines and other types of printed products were ultimately spared from the rules following pressure from MEPs, while paper products still have to comply...