2 days ago
27
Brazil has asked the European Union to postpone the implementation of its new deforestation law, which could negatively impact exports of agricultural products.
Lisandra Paraguassu reports for Reuters.
In short:
- Brazil's government has formally requested the EU delay its deforestation-free regulation (EUDR) to prevent disruptions in trade.
- The law, passed in 2022, bans imports of goods linked to deforestation and could affect around 30% of Brazil's exports to the EU, especially soy, beef and coffee.
- Brazil argues that the law unfairly targets forested countries and would increase costs for exporters.
Key quote:
"We consider the EUDR to be a unilateral and punitive instrument that ignores national laws on combating deforestation."
— Brazilian ministers of agriculture and foreign affairs
Why this matters:
The EU's deforestation law could hurt Brazil's agricultural economy, but it is aimed at reducing global deforestation. Brazil's resistance highlights the tension between environmental policy and economic interests.
Related: EU’s new climate change plan will cause biodiversity loss and deforestation: Analysis
