Community of Practice on the EUDR launched to support practical implementation across supply chains

The European Forest Institute (EFI) and the EU Sustainable Supply Chains Coalition (EU SSCC) have launched the Community of Practice (CoP) on the EU Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products (EUDR) on 11 March 2026. This initiative is a new public–private platform designed to strengthen collaboration, enhance preparedness, and support practical implementation of the Regulation across global supply chains.

The EUDR is set to enter into force at the end of 2026, and public and private actors—including companies, producers, NGOs, Competent Authorities and other stakeholders—have already invested significantly in traceability systems, geolocation tools, digital data infrastructure and national monitoring mechanisms. The Community of Practice provides a neutral, technical space where stakeholders can examine implementation challenges, share lessons and explore practical solutions.

The CoP was introduced during an online launch event attended by over 250 stakeholders from Europe and producing countries. The session included introductory statements, a presentation on the origins and purpose of the CoP, an overview of examples from EUDR dry runs, and an interactive survey to identify priority issues for the 2026 CoP work programme.

A key feature of the initiative is the creation of a core group of technical experts and practitioners, representing operators across the seven EUDR commodities, SMEs, producer‑country actors, NGOs, certification schemes, and Competent Authorities. The core group will meet six times between March and December 2026 to engage in case-based discussions, practical testing and knowledge sharing. EFI and the EU SSCC will co‑facilitate these sessions.

Interested organisations can now apply to join the core group by completing the Expression of Interest form. Applications are open until 17 March at 12:00pm CET. Applicants will be informed of the final selection on 20 March.

EFI and the EU SSCC also invite interested individuals to subscribe for updates to stay informed about CoP activities, public summaries, and opportunities to contribute.

For more information, please contact: EUDR.CoP@efi.int