On November 4, 2024, EuroCham Laos supported the third EU-Laos high-level workshop on the European Union Regulation of Deforestation-free commodities (EUDR) at the Champasak Grand Hotel in Pakse. As the third in a series of four workshops aimed at raising awareness on EUDR among Lao stakeholders, this event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF), regional authorities, and other key sectors across southern Laos.

Given the significant role of agriculture in global deforestation, the EUDR, adopted in June 2023 as part of the European Green Deal, promotes sustainable sourcing and transparency in supply chains, covering commodities such as cattle, coffee, rubber, and wood. The workshop focused on:

o   Increasing understanding of the EUDR’s goals and impacts with input from the EU Delegation to Laos.

o   Facilitating stakeholder dialogue on EUDR challenges, opportunities, and support for enhancing EUDR readiness.

o   Promoting collaboration among Lao stakeholders for deforestation-free commodity chains.

Over 40 participants attended, including officials from agriculture, industry, commerce, planning, investment, and environmental divisions from six southern provinces. The Lao government, a key partner in EUDR implementation, continues to play a vital role in strengthening private sector readiness.

The workshop featured presentations, group discussions, and Q&A sessions covering due diligence, traceability, and practical needs from EU and Lao government support.

The workshop series will conclude with a final session in Vientiane, consolidating insights from previous events in Vientiane Capital and Luang Prabang. Each session underscores the Laos-EU partnership, fostering economic growth while prioritizing environmental conservation, setting the stage for a sustainable, deforestation-free future.