EUDR and DDS: new obligations for importers, manufacturers and traders

The EUDR, Regulation (EU) 2023/1115, is an EU regulation focused on products that must not be associated with deforestation or forest degradation. It applies to selected commodities and products, such as wood, rubber, coffee, cocoa, soy, palm oil, cattle and selected products made from these materials.

For importers, manufacturers, distributors and traders, this means new obligations related to proving the origin of raw materials and controlling the supply chain. It is important to determine whether a specific product falls within the scope of the EUDR, what role the company has in the supply chain and whether it is required to work with a DDS.

DDS stands for Due Diligence Statement. It is a due diligence declaration under the EUDR. It is not a standard EU Declaration of Conformity or CE marking documentation, but a separate type of documentation related to the origin of the raw material, risk assessment and compliance with the requirements of the EUDR.

The EUDR may apply in particular to companies importing products from third countries, using relevant materials in production, selling products made from affected commodities or needing to prove the origin of materials within their supply chain. The obligations may differ depending on whether the company acts as an importer, manufacturer, trader or distributor.

Under the EUDR, correctly prepared documentation, internal records, supplier checks and a clear link between the product, material and commercial documents are essential. Incorrect or incomplete documentation may cause problems during customs clearance, inspections or further sale of products within the EU.

The EUDR does not replace other obligations related to placing products on the market. Depending on the product, companies may still need to prepare an EU Declaration of Conformity, technical documentation, safety documentation, material declarations, product labelling or documentation required under the relevant EU regulations and directives.

If you are dealing with the EUDR, DDS, import of products from third countries, origin of raw materials, rubber, wood, wood products, material declarations, EU Declarations of Conformity, technical documentation or documentation for placing products on the EU market, we can help you assess your obligations, review supplier documents, prepare the necessary documentation and assist you with the EUDR system.