How to Ensure EUDR Compliance in the Coffee Supply Chain

The Coffee Supply Chain and EUDR Challenges

European importers purchase the majority of their green coffee beans directly from developing countries. However, compliance with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) in the coffee market presents unique challenges. The coffee supply chain is highly complex, involving millions of smallholder farmers and numerous intermediaries such as cooperatives, exporters, manufacturers, brands, logistics companies and retailers. This complex structure makes ensuring compliance more challenging than for other commodities covered by the EUDR.

Requirements for coffee farmers

For coffee farmers, the EUDR requires certification that their commodity is deforestation-free by meeting the following criteria:

• Coffee must not be produced on land that will be deforested after 2020.
• GPS data of the production area must be collected.
• Relevant information must be shared with business partners.
• Land use and labor rights must be respected.

Due Diligence Steps for EUDR Compliance in Coffee

Producers, importers, and traders in the EUDR-regulated coffee market must provide a due diligence statement to ensure compliance. This includes the following three key steps

1. Gather evidence that the coffee product is deforestation-free.
2. Assess risks of non-compliance in the supply chain.
3. Take action to mitigate identified risks and ensure compliance with EUDR standards.
4. By implementing these measures, stakeholders can navigate the complexities of the coffee supply chain while contributing to global sustainability goals.