TDUK and BRC Publish Guide: How the Timber Supply Chain Should Understand EUDR Traceability Readiness

TDUK and BRC have collaborated to publish a new guide aimed at helping UK retailers and supply chain businesses understand and prepare for the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).^[1]

The publication, titled in full "EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR): Strategic Implications for Retailers and GB Supply Chains", provides practical guidance on the regulatory requirements, the potential impact on UK businesses and the preparatory work that should be undertaken.^[1]

Although Great Britain is not in the EU, UK businesses supplying the EU and Northern Ireland markets will still be significantly affected by EUDR; businesses trading only within Great Britain may also face more traceability and sourcing information requirements as multinational customers pursue supply chain standard consistency.^[1]

EUDR covers seven main commodities, namely wood, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, rubber, soy and cattle, as well as derived products such as timber, furniture and paper; businesses placing relevant products on the EU and Northern Ireland markets must demonstrate that the products are deforestation-free and legally produced, backed by appropriate due diligence and traceability systems.^[1]

The joint publication examines the commercial and operational implications of EUDR, including potential risks to market access, supplier relationships and procurement processes.^[1]

The guide provides a practical roadmap covering supply chain mapping, geolocation requirements, supplier engagement, risk assessment and investment in traceability systems, and explains the differing responsibilities of operators, downstream operators and traders, as well as the information that GB suppliers may be asked to provide.^[1]

The guide emphasises that EUDR should not be viewed solely as a regulatory obligation, but also as an opportunity to improve supply chain transparency, strengthen responsible sourcing practices and build more resilient supplier relationships.^[1]

For the timber industry, the document stresses the need to understand how EUDR requirements interact with the existing UK Timber Regulations, which continue to apply to relevant imported timber entering Great Britain.^[1]