Intertek has unveiled a suite of services aimed at supporting businesses in meeting the requirements of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which comes into force on 30 December 2025.
The regulation targets the trade of seven commodities—wood, rubber, cocoa, coffee, cattle, soy, and palm oil—within the European market. Companies will be required to submit a due diligence statement confirming that these products are not linked to deforestation. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to 4% of EU turnover and potential exclusion from the market.
The European legislation is part of broader efforts to curb deforestation, with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reporting that around 420 million hectares of forest—approximately 10% of global forest cover—were lost between 1990 and 2020.
In anticipation of these regulatory demands, Intertek’s new services offer end-to-end support, including regulatory guidance, training, commodity mapping, and on-site verification. Among the tools introduced is EUDRtrace, a blockchain-based platform designed to enhance traceability and transparency across supply chains.
Mark Thomas, Executive Vice President – Assurance, Sustainability, AgriWorld and Food at Intertek, said: “Intertek’s EUDR solutions are not only a response to customer demand but also a testament to our commitment to leadership in Total Quality Assurance, underpinned by our passion for sustainability and dedication to compliance with critical environmental regulations. The new EU regulation is a crucial step towards halting deforestation and helping companies safeguard their market position while protecting our natural resources. Compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties – it’s about leading the way towards a sustainable, deforestation-free future.”
Lois Haighton, Senior Director, Consumer Assurance, Food and Nutrition, added: “In an era where compliance with new regulations and rising consumer expectations is no longer optional, brands and traders face a critical choice: adapt or risk falling behind. Our team of regulatory experts takes great pride in working with companies that not only strive to meet compliance requirements but work to lead with transparency, integrity and a forward-thinking approach.”
Darrin Harkness, President of Intertek Assuris, commented: “With comprehensive support—covering every stage from farmer to consumer—we ensure our customers’ journey to compliance is seamless, impactful, and future-focused. Our solutions protect their market position, guide them through the complexities of regulatory demands with precision, and provide confidence in their supply chain transparency.”
The introduction of these services comes as businesses face growing scrutiny over their environmental impact and as regulatory frameworks tighten to address global deforestation and sustainability challenges.
