EU to Exclude Leather From Anti-Deforestation Law
EU officials say leather will be excluded from new anti-deforestation rules. The move follows industry claims that leather production is a meat by-product.
The European Union will exclude leather imports from its upcoming anti-deforestation law following pressure from tanning industry groups. The exemption removes hides and skins from a world-first regulation that still applies to beef, soy, and coffee. Investors in global supply chains face lower compliance costs as the EU protects its world-leading tanning sector.
EU officials told Reuters the Commission plans to remove leather from the list of commodities requiring proof of non-deforestation. The law takes effect in December. Companies breaking the rules risk fines and potential bans on accessing the EU market.
