Deforestation: Council compromise moves in the right direction

"It is a success that the EU ambassadors have agreed on a position in favour of greater relief and flexibility for craft businesses. The EU Member States have thus followed the German government's proposal on key points. The fact that Germany speaks with a strong voice in Brussels and represents the interests of small and medium-sized enterprises is an important signal for the craft sector.

On a positive note, the effective date of the EU law has been postponed by another year until the end of 2026. In addition, the Commission is being asked to examine further possible simplifications by April 2026, i.e. during the transition period. Documentation and verification requirements are to be further simplified compared to the Commission's proposal.  

Key demands made by the German skilled crafts sector have been taken on board. It is now up to the Members of the European Parliament to endorse the Council's position."