EUDR Regulation Compliance Guide for Packaging Companies (2025 Update)
Why the EU Deforestation Regulation Matters for Packaging Companies
Many packaging companies still wonder if the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) applies to them—it does. For anyone trading paper, cardboard, or wood-based packaging with the EU, compliance is mandatory. In practice, this means proving raw materials are deforestation-free, facing tighter supply chain checks and extra costs. But it also means companies that prepare early can avoid customs delays and position themselves as trusted partners for regulators and sustainability-minded customers.
- What is EUDR?
- Who Must Comply with EUDR?
- EUDR Compliance Timeline and Key Steps for Packaging Businesses
- Common Compliance Challenges and Solutions
- Conclusion: Preparing for EUDR to Protect Your Market Access and Reputation
- FAQ of EUDR
Simply speaking, EUDR, short for the EU Deforestation Regulation, was a law introduced to slow down global deforestation. Agricultural expansion is one of the main reasons for forest loss, which is reducing biodiversity and contributing to climate change. To address this, the EU wants to encourage the use of deforestation-free products, ensuring that European consumption no longer contributes to further forest destruction.
Commodities covered by the EUDR Regulation and impact on packaging
EUDR clearly states: if a company fails to demonstrate compliance, it will not be allowed to sell its products in the EU—whether importing into or exporting from the EU. The law applies to seven major commodities: soya, coffee, cocoa, oil palm, rubber, cattle, and wood. For the packaging industry, wood and paper-based products are the most relevant, which means the suppliers must try their best to demonstrate the raw materials are both sustainable and legal.
EUDR's scope is extensive. It is not limited to farmers or raw commodity producers. Instead, it covers every actor who places relevant products on the EU market—including importers, exporters, manufacturers, traders, and brand owners.
More importantly, non-EU companies are also subject to EUDR. For example, packaging manufacturers in Asia or the UK still have to comply if their paper, cardboard, or wood-based products are headed for the EU. This makes EUDR not just a European issue but a global regulation that reshapes supply chains worldwide.
Why FSC certification alone does not meet EUDR compliance
A common misconception is that FSC certification alone is enough. While FSC and other certifications can help, they do not guarantee EUDR compliance. Companies still need to provide detailed supply chain data—such as geolocation information and risk assessments—to meet the regulation’s legal requirements.
EUDR Compliance Timeline and Key Steps for Packaging Businesses
EUDR entered into force in June 2023. Large companies must comply by December 30, 2025. Micro and small enterprises have a bit more time—until June 30, 2028.
5 EUDR compliance steps for packaging businesses
For packaging businesses, preparing early is crucial. Here are 5 key implementation steps:
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Check if your packaging materials fall under EUDR (e.g., paper, cardboard, wood).
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Collect supply chain data, including geolocation of raw material sources. For example, a pulp supplier may need to provide the exact coordinates of the forest where the wood was harvested.
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Assess risk using the EU’s country classification system (low, standard, high).
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Submit a due diligence statement before placing goods on the EU market.
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Maintain complete records for future inspections.
By taking these steps now, companies can minimize the risk of delays, rejections, or fines when EUDR takes effect.
Common Compliance Challenges and Solutions
For packaging companies, the common challenges of EUDR compliance are cost and complexity. Building a transparent supply chain often requires new systems, taking time, money, and cooperation with suppliers, which smaller firms may struggle with.
Practical solutions to achieve EUDR compliance for packaging companies
However, there are some practical solutions:
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Using digital traceability tools to manage data and reporting.
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Leveraging third-party certifications (like FSC) as support, though they don’t replace full compliance.
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Joining industry associations or working with compliance partners to share resources and reduce costs.
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Prioritizing sourcing from low-risk countries and reducing reliance on high-risk sources.
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Choosing packaging solutions with certified sourcing and compliance-ready documents. For example, our sustainable packaging products come pre-certified, helping businesses reduce both time and costs in meeting EUDR requirements.
Failure to comply doesn’t just cost money—it can cost your reputation in the EU market. Don’t just stay cautious—act now.
Preparing for EUDR to Protect Your Market Access and Reputation
In this EUDR compliance guide for the packaging industry (2025), one message is clear: for companies in this sector, waiting is not an option. The regulation brings tougher compliance requirements, yet it also gives responsible companies an opportunity to lead. By improving sourcing and reporting, companies can protect their businesses, demonstrate real sustainability, and build long-term trust in the EU market. Contact us today to see how our sustainable packaging solutions keep you ahead of EUDR compliance.
FAQ of EUDR
1. I am not an EU company. Do I still need to comply with EUDR?
Yes. EUDR applies to any business that places covered products on the EU market, no matter where the company is located. This means non-EU packaging manufacturers, exporters, or traders must also comply if their products are sold in Europe.
2. I already have FSC certification, does that mean I’m compliant?
No, certification alone isn't sufficient. FSC and similar certifications can support your due diligence process, but they do not replace EUDR compliance. You still need to provide detailed supply chain data such as geolocation and risk assessments.
3. How does EUDR affect the packaging industry?
It specifically covers paper, cardboard, and other wood-based products. That means packaging companies need to trace their raw material sources, maintain records, and increase supply chain transparency.
4. When are the deadlines?
The EUDR timeline is as follows:
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Regulation adopted: June 2023
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Large company compliance: December 30, 2025
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SME compliance: June 30, 2028
5. What steps should I take to meet EUDR requirements?
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(1) Identify whether your packaging materials are covered.
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(2) Collect supply chain data.
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(3) Assess risk using EU’s country risk classification.
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(4) Submit a due diligence statement before entering the EU market.
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(5) Keep complete records for future inspections.
6. What is the EU's country risk classification?
The EU classifies countries into low, standard, and high risk.
If you source from low-risk countries, compliance procedures are simplified and the burden is reduced. This differentiated approach applies varying requirements based on each country's deforestation and forest degradation risk levels.
Click here to know more about the risk classification.
7. Where can I download the official EUDR regulation PDF?
The full EUDR regulation PDF is available for download on the European Commission's official website.
