With the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) enforcement approaching, Article 11 makes one requirement clear: supplier engagement isn’t a one-off exercise — it’s an ongoing obligation. Companies must ensure that suppliers not only provide accurate due-diligence statements but are also continuously informed, trained, and updated on compliance expectations.
What Article 11 Requires
Article 11 of the EUDR requires operators and traders to implement appropriate and proportionate risk-mitigation measures whenever a risk assessment (under Article 10) identifies more than a negligible risk of non-compliance. These measures must be completed before products are placed on the EU market and can include obtaining additional information, supplier verification, or third-party validation to reduce risk to a negligible level.
In practice, this means proactive supplier engagement is more important than ever. Through education, clear communication, and regular updates, companies can strengthen traceability, reduce exposure, and build a more resilient, compliant supply chain.
Why This Matters Now
Even if initial supplier declarations have been collected, they must be kept current. Supply chains evolve, sourcing regions shift, and deforestation risks change. Without structured re-engagement and proof of communication, organizations risk non-compliance — and potential penalties — under EUDR’s audit provisions.
Recommended Actions for the Next 30 Days
- Re-issue EUDR guidance to all suppliers and confirm understanding.
- Schedule refresher training for high-risk sourcing regions or commodities.
- Document communication trails to demonstrate due diligence and mitigation actions.
- Leverage digital platforms to automate outreach and monitor completion.
- Request additional proof such as farm registration documentation and local government land clearance records.
How Sphera Helps
Sphera’s Supplier Engagement module enables automated supplier re-engagement, training delivery, and acknowledgment tracking — ensuring Article 11 compliance is continuous, auditable, and scalable across complex, multi-tier networks.
Stay proactive. Re-engage now to build a verifiable record of supplier education, risk mitigation, and compliance — the foundation of an EUDR-ready supply chain.
Ready to ensure your supply chain is EUDR-compliant? Speak to our experts today to learn how Sphera can help you streamline supplier engagement, automate compliance, and stay ahead of regulatory requirements.
