Why are supply chain regulations being delayed in 2025?

Regulatory delays are happening because governments are upgrading the systems used to collect and verify compliance data. For example, the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and EU Batteries Regulation (EUBR) are being aligned with new corporate due diligence laws. These changes are designed to create consistent, digital, and enforceable reporting standards across markets — not to weaken or remove existing requirements.

Do supply chain regulation delays reduce the amount of compliance data manufacturers need to report?

No. They’re becoming more structured. Regulators are harmonizing rules across markets, meaning manufacturers will soon be submitting similar types of product, material, and sourcing data through interconnected systems. Acting now helps ensure your internal data is organized to meet those future requirements smoothly.

How can manufacturers use regulatory delay periods to strengthen product compliance and sustainability programs?

This is the right moment to test your data collection processes, train suppliers, and evaluate your technology stack. Investing in supply chain sustainability software or product compliance software can help you centralize supplier data, automate outreach, and prepare for a more digital reporting environment.

What do current regulatory delays reveal about the future of global compliance?

The era of manual compliance and supply chain data management programs is ending. Global regulations are moving toward continuous, data-driven oversight where transparency, traceability, and verified reporting define competitiveness. Manufacturers that invest now in digital data management and proactive compliance will be better equipped to adapt to global sustainability rules and gain a competitive advantage.

What is the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and why does it matter?

The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is a landmark law that prohibits products linked to deforestation from being sold in the EU. It requires manufacturers to perform due diligence to ensure products are:Free from deforestationCompliant with production country lawsSupported by a due diligence statementNon-compliance can result in product bans, legal penalties, and reputational damage, making EUDR adherence critical for companies exporting to or operating within the EU.

How does the EU Deforestation Regulation affect supply chain sustainability?

EUDR raises the bar on supply chain sustainability by mandating extensive data collection and annual risk assessments. Companies must analyze deforestation risk factors, such as land use, human rights concerns, and traceability to the origin plot. This marks a shift from basic compliance to ongoing, risk-informed due diligence, reshaping responsible sourcing standards.

What is a Digital Product Passport (DPP) and how does it support EUDR compliance?

A Digital Product Passport (DPP) is a digital record that contains detailed product information, including origin, materials, carbon footprint, and supplier data. While not mandatory under the EUDR, EU digital product passports streamline compliance by:Centralizing traceability dataEnabling faster, more accurate risk assessmentsSupporting proactive regulatory readinessAdopting DPPs gives manufacturers a scalable way to meet today’s EUDR requirements and prepare for future EU sustainability laws.

Which products are in scope under the EU Deforestation Regulation?

The EUDR applies to both raw commodities and derived goods, including:Commodities: Cattle, cocoa, coffee, oil palm, rubber, soy, woodProducts: Leather, chocolate, palm oil, glycerol, rubber items, pulp, paper goods

Why should manufacturers adopt Digital Product Passports now?

Proactively integrating digital product passports into compliance programs helps manufacturers:Stay ahead of evolving EU regulations like EUDR and the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR)Increase transparency and audit readinessReduce manual compliance burdens and future proof their operationsWith global regulations trending toward stricter responsible sourcing requirements, DPPs are a strategic investment for long-term compliance and competitive advantage.