World of Cocoa: EUDR and Cocoa Import in Germany

The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) has caused a stir in the food industry. It aims to ensure that cocoa products entering the European market do not contribute to deforestation. For us at Bohnkaf, as an importer of cocoa from Central and South America, it is crucial to inform you, our customers, about how we are preparing to comply with this regulation and how it affects your cocoa supply.

The EUDR and Its Global Impact
The EUDR came into force on June 29, 2023, and will become mandatory from December 30, 2024. It is part of a global trend where governments are taking measures to regulate the consumption of "forest-risk commodities" such as cocoa, beef, and soy. The regulation has caught the attention of the World Trade Organization (WTO), as it is seen by some producer countries as potentially discriminatory, raising questions about its compatibility with international trade laws.

Specific Requirements of the EUDR
The EUDR requires companies that are the first to place products on the EU market to exercise extensive due diligence. This means that we at Bohnkaf, as a cocoa supplier in Germany, must ensure that our cocoa comes from non-deforested areas and complies with all local legal regulations. Specifically, this involves:

- Geolocation: We must record the exact geographic coordinates of the cultivation areas where our cocoa is produced. This allows precise monitoring and ensures that the cocoa is not grown on land deforested after the cut-off date of December 31, 2020.

- Due Diligence and Documentation: It is our responsibility to ensure that all cocoa in our supply chain meets EUDR standards. This includes comprehensive documentation and monitoring of the supply chain to prove that no illegal deforestation has occurred.

 

Our Steps to Comply with the EUDR
Here’s what Bohnkaf has done to ensure we meet the EUDR requirements:

- Mid-2023: Information and Pilot Project
By mid-2023, we had already informed all our partners in the countries of origin about the new legislation. We explained the EUDR requirements in detail to ensure they understand what is expected of them. In addition, we participated in the pilot project to provide the online information system "elan!," which helps us better manage and implement the new requirements.

- Mid to Late 2023: Data Collection and Geolocation
From mid to late 2023, we worked intensively to collect all the necessary information and geolocation data from the countries of origin. This was a crucial step to ensure the traceability of our supply chain and accurately document the origin of our cocoa.

- From 2024: Testing and Completing Data Collection
In early 2024, we began testing programs to evaluate the collected geolocation data. These tests are crucial to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data. In parallel, we completed data collection, providing us with comprehensive information that demonstrates EUDR compliance.

- Since September 2024: Systematic Review of Geo-Coordinates
Another milestone is our systematic review of the geo-coordinates and polygons of all lots to be shipped using the Explorer Land program. Since September 2024, we have been using this to check all cocoa shipments for deforestation. This allows us to ensure that every step in our supply chain meets the new requirements and that we are fully transparent and compliant.

What Does This Mean for You as a Customer?
For you as our customers, this means that you can rely on our cocoa meeting the strict requirements of the EUDR. By carefully collecting, reviewing, and evaluating geolocation data, we ensure that our cocoa comes from deforestation-free areas and meets all legal requirements. With these measures, we are well-prepared to comply with the new legislation and continue to provide you with high-quality and sustainable products.

Bottom line
The EUDR imposes high demands on companies in the cocoa industry, but at Bohnkaf, we see this as an opportunity to make our supply chain even more sustainable and transparent. Through targeted measures, from informing our partners to systematically reviewing geo-coordinates, we have implemented a comprehensive plan to ensure compliance with the new regulations. This way, you can be sure that the cocoa you source from us is produced responsibly and in line with the latest environmental standards.