Wood industry businesses guided on compliance with EU export regulations

On October 12, the Dong Nai Wood and Handicraft Association (DOWA) held a training session titled "EUDR – Supply Chain Process and Satellite Data Verification Guidelines" to help businesses stay updated on regulations and compliance requirements and prepare the necessary documentation for exports to the European Union (EU) market.

Dr. Truong Tat Do, an expert from the Forestry and Forest Protection Department under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, briefs participants on the European Union's forest protection regulations. Photo: Vuong The

At the training session, experts briefed participants and business representatives on the key requirements of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), including demonstrating that products have not caused deforestation after December 31, 2020, ensuring the legality of production processes, and providing traceability data. Accordingly, businesses must identify the geographical coordinates of production plots, verify the current status of the land using satellite mapping data, and cross-check the findings against the 2020 forest boundary map. The required documentation must also include information on producers, crop types, harvest times, and production volumes, along with legal land-use documents and purchase and sale records covering each stage of the supply chain.

Nguyen Cong An, Director of Eco Technology 2A Joint Stock Company in Tran Bien Ward, presents solutions for verifying satellite data on raw material sourcing areas. Photo: Vuong The

Satellite data verification enables businesses to identify areas where discrepancies in forest status may exist, allowing them to proactively review raw material areas and supplement the necessary information. This is a critical step in minimizing risks when demonstrating the origin of goods in accordance with EU requirements.

The training session also highlighted the role of planting area databases and traceability systems in managing raw materials throughout the production, procurement, processing, and export stages. In addition to meeting deforestation-free requirements, businesses must ensure that their raw materials comply with Vietnamese laws on land, environmental protection, labor, taxation, and other relevant regulations.

Participants attend the training session. Photo: Vuong The

Through the program, DOWA aims to help businesses proactively review their supply chains, standardize data, and complete the documentation needed to meet EUDR requirements. These efforts will help wood industry businesses in Dong Nai strengthen their ability to access the EU market and markets in other countries, while promoting transparency regarding the origins of raw materials and fostering sustainable production.

By Vuong The – Translated by Minh Hong, Minho