Canada is seeking to reform the implementation of the EU anti-deforestation law for its businesses. This action is aimed at deepening relations between Canada and the European Union. Jonathan Wilkinson, Canada's ambassador to the EU, announced at an event in Brussels that Ottawa wants to address "some of the long-standing grievances that have existed between Canada and the EU."
New Law and Its Challenges
The new EU law, which will come into effect on December 30, requires companies to prove that products such as palm oil, coffee, and wood imported from forested lands have not been harvested. This law has faced severe criticism from several EU countries and trade partners of the bloc. Critics argue that this law imposes significant costs on businesses and does not provide sufficient exemptions for low-risk deforestation countries.
Discussion on Improving Conditions
Wilkinson stated that the implementation of the new laws "could be done in a way that is easier for third parties." He added that Canada has "no objection" to the EU's goal of stopping deforestation, but this law includes no "exceptions" for low-risk countries. Ottawa does not expect Brussels to create a specific exemption for Canada, but hopes for a discussion on how to improve these conditions.
Canada is working to strengthen its relations with Europe to reduce dependence on the United States. The EU is also looking to deepen relations with Ottawa to diversify its supply of critical raw materials and improve its relations with the United States.
According to trade data, Canada's exports to the EU in 2025 were valued at $34.5 billion, including $242 million in wood and wood products and $174 million in paper and paper pulp.
