At a recent conference during the Triestespresso trade show in Italy, coffee industry leaders gathered to discuss the persistent challenges and unanswered questions surrounding the upcoming European Union Deforestation-free Regulation (EUDR). The session, focused on traceability, highlighted the specific concerns of downstream operators, particularly roasters, as the regulation's enforcement deadlines draw near.
Speakers, including representatives from Italian coffee associations, emphasized that while much information has been directed at producers and traders, roasters still face significant uncertainty. Key issues raised include the reliability of supply chain data, the costs associated with compliance, and the potential for sourcing difficulties. There is also a lack of clarity on how competent authorities will conduct inspections and what specific documentation will be required, creating anxiety for businesses preparing for the new rules.
Despite the operational hurdles, there was acknowledgment that major coffee-producing countries are making progress in organizing to meet EUDR requirements. A speaker who had recently returned from Brazil reported that large origins are actively working to provide the necessary traceability data, offering some reassurance about future supply. However, the discussion reinforced that the legal responsibility for due diligence rests with the European operators importing the coffee, underscoring the critical need for reliable, transparent partnerships throughout the supply chain.