[EVENT RECAP] [Webinar] European Anti-Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and Vietnam’s preparation for its implementation

On 6 November 2023, EuroCham Vietnam hosted a webinar on the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). This regulation, which emerged as a hot topic in the latter half of 2023, is poised to remain a significant issue for years to come. The webinar focused on Vietnam’s preparation for implementing the EUDR and its potential impact on the country’s economy and environment.

It was moderated by Paul-Antoine Croizé, Vice-Chairman of the EuroCham Food, Agri and Aqua Business Sector Committee (FAABS), and Business Area Director South-East Asia of Lallemand Animal Nutrition. It also featured four expert speakers, including: 

• Jennifer Pham, Regional Advisor on Sustainable Value Chains, Embassy of Denmark in Vietnam;
• Loan Le, Managing Director, International Economics Consulting Vietnam;
• Christian Schriver, Regional Director and Southeast Asia Palm Oil Commodity Lead; and
• Ho Van Cu, Senior Manager in Forestry, Preferred by Nature.

To kick off the webinar, Mr. Croizé warmly welcomed all speakers and participants to the webinar. He emphasized the importance of the gathering, highlighting its aim to delve deep into the EUDR. Recognizing the EUDR as a landmark achievement in the fight against deforestation, he provided a concise overview of the topic.

Ms. Jennifer Pham delivered the first presentation, providing the audience with a comprehensive understanding of the EUDR. Her presentation focused on the following key aspects:

• Origins and Implementation Roadmap: Ms. Pham explored the origins of the EUDR and outlined its implementation roadmap, providing a clear understanding of the timeline and key milestones.
• Obligations and Due Diligence: She thoroughly explained the EUDR obligations for enterprises, including the due diligence procedures they must follow to comply with the regulation.
• Illustrative Examples: To further clarify the practical application of the EUDR, Ms. Pham presented illustrative examples, showcasing how enterprises must approach compliance.
• Useful Resources: Recognizing the importance of readily accessible information, Ms. Pham reviewed various resources available to enterprises seeking in-depth knowledge and guidance on the EUDR.

Ms. Loan followed up Ms. Pham’s presentation by sharing her insightful presentation concerning specific challenges the EUDR may bring as well as the potential opportunities that enterprises can enjoy after the EUDR is implemented. She also provided advice on how the audience can overcome the challenges posed by the EUDR by using a checklist flowchart.

Following Ms. Loan’s presentation, Mr. Schriver discussed the EUDR from the perspective of enterprises. After showing potential impacts of the regulation on the supply chain and the producer, he highlighted what can be done to address these impacts and to prepare for its implementation.

During the Q&A session, attendees and speakers engaged in a lively dialogue. As a result of the insightful dialogue, a deeper understanding of the implications of the EUDR was gained and key areas that require further study were highlighted. 

To address the concerns of attendees, Mr. Cu emphasized the need for greater clarity and guidance on EUDR compliance requirements for importers as well as collaboration between stakeholders.

Mr. Croizé concluded the webinar by thanking the esteemed speakers for their insightful presentations. Moreover, he acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the engaged participants, whose active participation fueled a lively and thought-provoking discussion.