Insights from the EUDR webinar with VERSO
At the end of October, we at Geocledian took part in a well-attended webinar hosted by VERSO entitled ‘EUDR-Roadmap für Importeure: Sicher handeln trotz Ungewissheit’. More than 130 participants learned about the current status of the EUDR and gained valuable tips on implementing a roadmap.
The high demand for information was also evident from the results of the surveys conducted during the webinar and from the many questions asked in the Q&A session at the end of the panel discussion.
Here are a few of the most important findings:
When asked with which commodities they were affected by the EUDR, the majority answered wood / paper. Rubber and beef were also strongly represented. Cocoa, soy, coffee and palm oil were also mentioned.
Given that the EUDR was adopted almost two and a half years ago and will come into force at the end of this year, even if not all the details are clear yet, it is astonishing that over 40% of participants are only just beginning to check whether they are affected or even want to wait and see. 12% are looking for a software solution, meaning that only just under half are already in the process of implementation. This means that companies run a high risk of goods being unable to pass through customs for an indefinite period of time, which also threatens production losses. Without a corresponding declaration, it is not even a risk but simply a fact.
Of the numerous questions that could not all be answered in the time available, here are a few examples relating to geodata:
Q: Suppliers provide geodata, but not the type of wood. How can I find this out?
A: Suppliers must provide the type of wood. If they do not want to do so, it must be assumed that something is wrong. If necessary, analyses can of course also be obtained from laboratories.
Q: How realistic do you think the timeline shown is? Especially since suppliers often refuse to provide geodata.
A: With specialised software such as VERSO, this is still possible in principle. It is much more difficult, if not impossible, to set up the entire process now, e.g. using ERP software. We can support suppliers in the process of collecting geodata. However, there must be a fundamental willingness to do so. A check can also be carried out in advance, without an order from the supplier.
Conclusion: Uncertainty requires timely and targeted preparation. With the right tools – such as those offered by VERSO and Geocledian – this is not rocket science. If you haven’t done so yet, get started today! If you are already in the middle of it, don’t hesitate, step on the gas and take advantage of the benefits of acting in good time.
If you need support, please feel free to contact us at EUDR@geocledian.com
Credits cover photo: iStock, Parradee Kietsirikul
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