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The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is changing the way businesses across the supply chain — including the UK print industry — think about sourcing and traceability. While many UK-based printers assume the regulation doesn’t apply to them, the reality is more nuanced. Misunderstandings can lead to missed opportunities or compliance headaches down the line.
Here, we debunk the most common myths we’ve heard from UK print companies and set the record straight.
Myth 1: “We’re a UK-based printer, so EUDR doesn’t apply to us.”
Fact: If your printed products, packaging or paper materials could end up in the EU — either directly or indirectly via a non-EU customer — they fall within the scope of EUDR. While non-EU suppliers are not legally obliged to comply, providing your EU customers with the information they need will make you a far more attractive supplier.
Myth 2: “We only buy paper from UK or EU suppliers – so we’re safe.”
Fact: The EUDR does not differentiate between deforestation in the EU and outside of it. If you export to the EU — directly or indirectly — you will likely be asked to evidence your supply chain back to the original timber source.
Even when sourcing from ‘low risk’ countries, you must still provide details on where your materials originated and how they moved through the supply chain.
UK printers should take note if:
- Your UK customer exports your printed products to the EU. They may request compliance evidence from you.
- You supply EU-based companies or brands. You may be part of a scrutinised supply chain, even if you’re not the final exporter.
Myth 3: “We don’t sell timber – we’re just printing brochures and packaging.”
Fact: It’s not about raw logs — it’s about products derived from wood. Paper, cardboard, booklets, flyers, and cartons all fall under the EUDR scope if they are traded into the EU. Always check if your product’s HS code appears in Annex 1 of the EUDR.
Myth 4: “Our MIS already tracks materials – that should be enough.”
Fact: Standard MIS systems aren’t designed for EUDR-specific requirements like geolocation data or deforestation risk assessments. Compliance will likely require additional modules or integration with specialist traceability tools.
Myth 5: “We can wait and see — this won’t be enforced for a while.”
Fact: The EUDR entered into force in June 2023, with enforcement starting 30 December 2025 for most companies. EU customers are already demanding traceability to prepare. Acting now not only avoids future disruption — it gives you a competitive edge.
Myth 6: “Certification schemes like FSC or PEFC are enough to ensure compliance with the EUDR.”
Fact: Certification supports responsible sourcing but is not enough to meet EUDR legal requirements. Here’s why:
- Geolocation requirements – The EUDR requires precise coordinates for the land where trees were harvested; certification doesn’t provide this at a transactional level.
- Deforestation-free assurance – Certification shows your systems meet a standard but doesn’t guarantee each individual consignment is deforestation-free.
- Consignment-level traceability – FSC and PEFC don’t provide full end-to-end traceability, which the EUDR demands.
- Due diligence & risk assessments – The EUDR requires a fully auditable due diligence system, including supply chain data and transparent risk assessments.
How Interu helps:
Our platform collects, verifies, and stores geolocation and supply chain data; enables risk assessments across suppliers and consignments; and allows you to generate and submit EUDR-compliant Due Diligence Statements, all in one place. This means you can comply confidently without disrupting your operations.
For UK print companies, EUDR is not a distant issue. It’s already shaping trade requirements, so the sooner you prepare, the more resilient and competitive your business will be. Get in touch today.
