On 23 July 2019, the European Commission adopted a Communication setting out a new framework of actions including an assessment of possible new regulatory measures to address deforestation. Deforestation is associated with commodities such as soy, palm oil, cocoa or meat, of which the EU is a top importer.

NGOs have welcomed the announcement, but are calling on the Commission to ensure equal attention is paid to human rights in the development of any law regulating supply chains to minimise the risk of deforestation. 

More information is available below.