Nigeria must comply with the EU’s Deforestation Regulation by December 31, 2025, or face export bans on rubber, palm oil, and other key commodities. The regulation aims to prevent products linked to deforestation from entering the EU. Expert opinions stress the need for collaboration among stakeholders to adapt and thrive within the regulatory framework, as non-compliance may result in economic repercussions.
Nigeria risks being barred from exporting key commodities such as rubber, palm oil, soya beans, wood, beef, cocoa, coffee, and charcoal to the European Union if it does not comply with the EUDR (European Union Deforestation Regulation) by the deadline of December 31, 2025. This regulation aims to halt deforestation and biodiversity loss by ensuring that imported products do not contribute to forest damage.
Florence Omolola Jones-Idowu, President of the Association for Forest Conservation and Green Industrial Charcoal Merchants, emphasized the importance of adhering to this deadline during a training program held at the University of Ibadan. She cautioned that non-compliance could adversely impact Nigeria’s earnings from EUDR-listed products and their derivatives.
To meet the EUDR requirements, Jones-Idowu highlighted the necessity for a shift towards strategies like the Central Traceability and Release System, which would integrate adequate tree planting aligned with Nigerian Forestry Regulations and international certification standards.
She noted that while wood and charcoal exports traditionally receive scrutiny, other factors such as urbanization, agricultural expansion, and economic globalization are significant drivers of deforestation. Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial to address these challenges effectively and ensure compliance with the upcoming regulations.
Jones-Idowu underscored potential repercussions on health-related sectors due to the EUDR. For example, latex-derived products could be affected, illustrating the far-reaching implications of non-compliance. She stressed that every stakeholder must engage actively as the compliance deadline approaches, given its critical importance for economic survival.
The training was designed for various government agencies, NGOs, and stakeholders to enhance understanding and compliance with the EUDR, facilitated by experts from SCS Global Services. This was aimed at equipping Nigeria with the necessary knowledge to foster compliance along the value chain for EUDR-listed commodities.
In summary, Nigeria faces significant trade implications if it does not comply with the EU’s Deforestation Regulation by December 31, 2025. The EUDR is crucial for ensuring that exported products do not contribute to global deforestation. Stakeholders must engage collaboratively to adapt to these regulations and protect essential economic interests. The training conducted serves as a vital step towards understanding and implementing compliance mechanisms effectively.
Original Source: www.thisdaylive.com
