2024-04-14 05:57:18
Since June 29, 2023, a new regulation has come into force in the European Union (EU), marking an important step in the global fight against deforestation and forest degradation.
This regulation establishes binding rules for EU operators and traders who market or export products such as timber, rubber, livestock, coffee, cocoa, palm oil and soybeans.
According to this European environmental regulation, all countries, including Ecuador, have the obligation to comply with these regulations before December 2024. This implies that products entering the European market, regardless of their country of origin, must meet strict criteria. of sustainability and not contributing to deforestation. Operators and companies that wish to export products subject to these regulations to the European Union must demonstrate that said products have been produced in a sustainable manner.
Ecuador, as a major exporter of cocoa, coffee and palm, faces the challenge of adapting to the requirements established in this regulation in order to continue accessing the European market in a competitive manner. Regulation 1115 approved by the European Commission prohibits the import of seven raw materials from deforested areas, which highlights the importance of Ecuador implementing appropriate measures to guarantee compliance with these regulations.
Negotiations between the EU and Ecuador on regulations aimed at tackling deforestation take on special relevance due to the direct impact on Ecuadorian exports and the country’s economy. Both parties are expected to seek a balance between protecting the environment and preserving the livelihoods of Ecuadorian producers.
These discussions offer an opportunity to strengthen cooperation between the EU and Ecuador in the fight against deforestation and climate change. Joint forest monitoring initiatives, knowledge and technology exchange, as well as sustainable development programs in affected communities, could be part of this collaborative effort.
Source: THE PRODUCER