EU Parliament Moves to Weaken Deforestation Ban on Imports

The European Parliament has voted to delay a proposed ban on importing commodities linked to deforestation. This decision introduces a 'no risk' category that reduces control measures and increases the uncertainty over the EU deforestation regulation, drawing criticism from environmental groups.

The European Parliament took a significant step on Thursday to dilute the impending ban on importing commodities like beef and soy that are tied to deforestation. The vote, which included a call for a one-year delay, signals resistance to the European Union's stringent environmental policies.

The European Commission had previously suggested a 12-month delay until December 2025 following opposition from various EU member states and international entities. However, the commission did not propose changing the core law, a stance that received support from EU governments.

The parliament's narrow decision to introduce a 'no risk' category of countries with less stringent controls complicates the EU deforestation regulation's future. Environmental groups condemned the move, suggesting it sends the wrong message as international climate commitments take center stage.

(With inputs from agencies.)