“I think that it is very controversial to give it up,” Ribera said. “The intention behind this regulation was to provide a better understanding on where and how the deforestation could be connected to our consumption … And I think this goal remains.”
She raised fears that businesses that had invested in compliance would be left out of pocket and disadvantaged.
“If there are difficulties, we have to solve those difficulties,” she said. And ensure that “those that have already taken the steps forwards, those that rely on the Commission and those that trust that our regulation is to be implemented do not feel deceived.”
It may be too late for that.
EPP backs delaying the deforestation law and the removal of “unnecessary documentation requirements” for European forestry and businesses. | Clemens Bilan/EPA
The European Tyre & Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA) is “concerned” by the Commission’s intention to postpone the law, said Secretary General Adam McCarthy, as it risks “prolonging uncertainty for operators who have prepared in good faith and are looking forward to demonstrating their commitment.”
The body also pointed out that many industry groups last year urged the Commission to carry out more tests on the system and were reassured that it would be able to cope.
While ETRMA acknowledged that it had no visibility on the full extent of the system’s outreach, the body noted substantial challenges in the IT system on their own “would not justify delaying the regulation.”
Roswall told POLITICO she was coordinating with Ribera and other commissioners “on the way forward.”