π± EUDR is Coming! A Must-Read Compliance Guide for Printing & Packaging Companies
π What is EUDR and Why Does It Matter to the Packaging Industry?
EUDR (Regulation EU 2023/1115) is a regulation aimed at preventing global deforestation. It applies to seven major product categories:
π Cattle
π« Cocoa
β Coffee
π΄ Palm Oil
π Rubber
π± Soy
πͺ΅ Wood (including paper)
β‘οΈ That means: paper-based packaging such as boxes, paper cards, labels, and printed materials are all within the EUDR scope.
π How to determine if your product is regulated?
Check the customs code (CN Code) against Annex I of the EUDR. For example:
-
Ex 49: Printed books and other print materials
-
4415: Wooden packaging boxes, crates, pallets
π What Are the Three Core Requirements of EUDR?
To be compliant, your product must meet all three of the following conditions:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| β No Deforestation | Product must not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation |
| β Legal Production | Product must comply with laws of the country where it was produced |
| β Due Diligence Statement (DDS) | Submit data to the EU’s TRACES system to receive reference numbers |
π These requirements apply before the product enters the EU market.
π¦ Who Needs to Comply? Exporters and Distributors – Take Note!
| Role | Required to Comply? | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| Operator (Exporter) | β Yes | Submit DDS and provide traceability data |
| Trader (Distributor/Printer) | β Yes | Provide or relay compliance data |
| Domestic Seller | β No | No DDS required, but data management suggested |
π£ In short: If your product enters the EU, someone in your chain must submit a DDS.
π§Ύ What Information Must Be Submitted?
UPM, as a global leader in paper supply, will provide the full set of EUDR compliance data, including:
-
π GeoJSON files showing forest origin coordinates
-
π³ Country of origin + species names (scientific and common)
-
π Reference and Verification Numbers (for TRACES submission)
π¨ Customers can request this package via UPM’s Customer Online Portal – response within 24 hours.
β Is FSC Paper Mandatory for EUDR Compliance?
No.
EUDR is a regulation, not a certification. FSC or PEFC certification can help with risk assessment, but they are not prerequisites.
β Even non-certified paper can be used if the supply chain data and risk management documentation are in place.
β Practical Compliance Roadmap for Packaging Companies
-
Confirm if your products will be exported to the EU
-
Notify your supplier that the order is for EUDR use
-
Establish a due diligence system internally
-
Collect and transmit data as required
-
Clear old inventory before December 2025 to avoid compliance gaps
π UPM: Your Reliable Partner for EUDR Compliance
UPM has launched a full EUDR solution to help customers stay ahead:
-
π¦ Dual supply options from Changshu (China) and EU factories
-
π Online platform for one-click data access
-
π Reference numbers included in delivery notes
-
π A detailed Due Diligence Process Document coming soon
-
π¬ Webinars, FAQs, and customer support for all EUDR questions
π Conclusion: Actively comply with regulations and win entry into the EU market
The core of EUDR is respect for forests and a reflection of the long-term competitiveness of enterprises. Only by preparing in advance and adhering to compliance can printing and packaging companies occupy a place in the global green supply chain.
We Provide One-Stop Services From Designing To Delivery
