Navigating the EU Regulation on deforestation-free value chains: Pathways to deforestation-free supply chains for Laos
With around 90% of global deforestation driven by agricultural expansion—a trend also prevalent in Southeast Asia—the EUDR, entered into force in June 2023. With the EU regulation on deforestation-free products (EUDR), the EU aims to minimise the EU’s contribution to deforestation and forest degradation worldwide and thereby its contribution to climate change, greenhouse gas emissions and biodiversity loss.
The Regulation serves as a critical tool in the implementation of the European Green Deal (EGD), reinforcing its objectives by addressing deforestation and promoting sustainable practices within the EU and beyond.
Furthermore, the European Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Laos is aligning its initiatives with the EGD to support local businesses in understanding EU regulations related to sustainability and fostering partnerships that contribute to a more sustainable future for both Laos and the EU.
On August 12, 2024, the EU-Laos second High level workshop focusing on the European Union Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR) was held at The Grand Luang Prabang Hotel. The European Chamber of Commerce proudly supported the workshop, the second in a series of four. The objectives of the workshop were the following:
Raise awareness and enhance the understanding on the EUDR, its objectives and impacts among key stakeholders in northern Laos;
Provide a platform for mutual exchange and stakeholder dialogue on the EUDR;
Discuss and collect concerns, challenges, opportunities and recommendations for support needed among relevant stakeholders overall and by key commodities (cattle, coffee, rubber and wood).
The event in Luang Prabang brought together 68 participants, including representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF), and provincial authorities from Northern Provinces of Laos. The workshop featured presentations from the EU Delegation to Laos and included group discussions on the challenges and opportunities that come with the transition towards deforestation-free commodity production in line with the EUDR.
Additional sessions will be held in Southern and Central Laos to further disseminate information on the EUDR and its impact and gather valuable feedback from stakeholders in Laos. These efforts are crucial for supporting the country in transitioning to deforestation-free supply chains.