ETRMA ‘regrets’ outcome of European Parliament vote on EUDR

Brussels – The European Tyre & Rubber Manufacturers Association (ETRMA) has voiced concern over the European Parliament's recent vote-through of certain amendments to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).

In a statement, the Brussels-based industry association said it “regrets” the outcome of the 14 Nov vote, as it would create "a new phase of uncertainty" across the natural rubber value-chain.

Instead, ETRMA said industry needs "predictability and action from the European Commission to bring further clarity and solve remaining issues standing in the way of a full and fair implementation of the EUDR." 

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) agreed to a one-year postponement of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and other amendments – by 371 votes to 240.

The postponement had been proposed by the EU Commission in response to concerns raised by member states, non-EU countries, traders and operators about the initial deadline set for the end of 2024.

Large operators and traders will now have to meet the certification requirements of the EUDR as of 30 Dec 2025, while micro- and small enterprises have until 30 June 2026 to comply.

Parliament, however, also adopted EUDR amendments – proposed by political groups – which have raised concerns by tire makers and other players throughout the natural rubber value chain. (ERJ report)

These amendments include the creation of a new category of countries posing “no risk” on deforestation in addition to the existing three categories of “low”, “standard” and “high” risk.

Countries classified as “no risk”, defined as countries with stable or increasing forest area development, would face significantly less stringent requirements as there is a negligible or non-existent risk of deforestation.

“Parliament has, therefore, decided to refer this file back to committee for interinstitutional negotiations,” explained a statement from the Strasbourg-based EU legislative body.

“In order for these changes to enter into force, the agreed text will have to be endorsed by both Council and Parliament and published in the EU Official Journal,” it also noted.