Late last year, the EU extended the mandatory compliance deadline for the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) by one year, pushing it to 30 December 2025. While this extension gives businesses additional time, preparation remains essential.

Italy remains the largest market for Australian wet blue hide exports, accounting for more than 50% of demand, with Australia ranking as the fifth-largest supplier. Other key suppliers, including Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, and the USA, face similar dynamics in meeting compliance and market expectations.

AHSLEA continues to work closely with DAFF teams based in Australia and in Brussels to advocate for the Australian industry. The focus of this work is cross-industry and government collaboration to represent Australia’s best interests as well as to build supply chain solutions in order to eventually enable whole-of-life traceability on hides.

While Australia’s traceability systems and industry collaboration—both across sectors and with government—are among the most advanced globally, there is still significant work to be done. A robust, scalable approach will further strengthen Australia’s position as the industry adapts to evolving regulatory requirements.