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
