Rada supports new requirements for goods related to deforestation
The Verkhovna Rada supported in first reading draft law No. 15352, which introduces new rules for the circulation of goods associated with deforestation and forest degradation. The document provides for verification of the legality of product origin and the creation of an electronic traceability system using geolocation data.
On September 16, 260 MPs voted to adopt the bill as a basis. Now the document must be finalized for second reading.
The bill establishes rules for the import of relevant goods into Ukraine, their sale on the domestic market, and export. The new requirements will apply to operators and traders working with such products.
One of the main innovations should be a national traceability system. For products, it will be necessary to confirm their legal origin, in particular using geolocation data of land plots where raw materials were obtained.
A mandatory due diligence procedure is also envisaged for operators, traders, and exporters. Electronic confirmation of product origin is planned to be organized on the basis of state information systems, which should allow tracing the supply chain.
Separately, the document provides for the expansion of electronic timber accounting and the use of certificates of origin for timber and products made from it, as well as changes in the state control system.
The bill was developed to adapt Ukrainian legislation to EU Regulation 2023/1115 (EUDR). European rules restrict access to the EU market for products if it is impossible to confirm that their production is not linked to deforestation or forest degradation.
The State Forest Resources Agency previously warned that the absence of an appropriate traceability system could create problems for Ukrainian producers when supplying products to the European Union. The new requirements are especially important for the forestry and woodworking industries and companies focused on the European market.
Adoption of the relevant legislation is also part of Ukraine's commitments within the framework of European integration and Ukraine Facility.
However, the initial version of the document will still be changed. The relevant environmental committee recommended adopting the bill as a basis with subsequent refinement. The Committee on Ukraine's Integration into the EU concluded that the draft generally does not contradict EU law, but requires revision and coordination with the European Commission.
The Anti-Corruption Committee also found a remark regarding one of the document's provisions. Therefore, the final requirements for business may change during the preparation of the bill for second reading.
Based on materials from: Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, State Forest Resources Agency of Ukraine, Suspilne
