NEWS

(03/14/2025 / sbr)

Intergraf and partners provide clarity on geolocation data in EU Deforestation Regulation

A coalition of industry associations, including Cepi, EMMA, ENPA, EPC, FEP, Intergraf, and News Media Europe, has released a joint statement to address misconceptions surrounding the role of geolocation data in compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). This statement aims to support printing companies in their EUDR discussions with customers, clarifying that geolocation data are not required in EU value chains for compliance.

The EUDR mandates the collection of geolocation data for wood harvested before placing it on the EU market or importing wood-based products into the EU. While this information is crucial for initial traceability, it is not automatically accessible to all actors along the value chain nor required for downstream operators to achieve compliance.

For EU downstream operators, successful submission of a due diligence statement does not require direct access to geolocation data if the information is already recorded in the EUDR Information System. Instead, compliance can be ensured by relying on the supplier’s Due Diligence Statement (DDS) reference number and verification number, provided that a robust due diligence system is in place. These reference numbers are the only mandatory information that must be systematically communicated along the value chain.

The EUDR Information System is designed to provide full disclosure only to Competent Authorities, not to all users in the supply chain. Geolocation data may occasionally be provided but they do not need to be systematically shared with downstream operators such as printers, publishers, and retailers. Consequently, these companies may never have access to geolocation data through the EU Information System.

Intergraf emphasizes that this clarification will help printing companies and other stakeholders navigate EUDR compliance efficiently while maintaining smooth operations in the supply chain.

Access the statement here.