Nestlé, Unilever, and Mars Protest Delay in EU Deforestation Law

Leading global food manufacturers, including Nestlé, Unilever, and Mars, have voiced opposition to the European Union’s decision to delay implementing its landmark deforestation law. Originally set to take effect on 30 December, the regulation aims to prohibit the sale of products made from commodities like cocoa, palm oil, rubber, and wood grown on deforested land.

The companies argue that postponing the law has created industry-wide uncertainty, threatening investment in sustainable sourcing practices. The delay comes after pressure from producing nations such as Brazil, Indonesia, and Malaysia, leading the European Commission to reconsider its timeline.

In a joint statement, these confectionery and snack giants expressed concern that continued delays by the European Parliament would expose firms reliant on cocoa and rubber imports to further uncertainty in securing compliant materials.

Ferrero’s global public affairs vice president, Francesco Tramontin, stressed the importance of avoiding any reopening of the regulation:

“Avoiding potential reopening of the regulation is fundamental to protecting the preparations companies have already made and driving further investment in more sustainable practices.”

Nestlé Europe’s ESG engagement vice president, Bart Vandewaetere, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the strides the company and its suppliers have made to align with the regulation:

“We encourage policymakers to maintain its core framework without reopening it.”

This latest development follows earlier calls from major supermarket chains urging governments to introduce measures addressing deforestation-driving commodities and to align national policies with EU regulations.

By maintaining the momentum of sustainability-focused legislation, industry leaders hope to secure long-term investments in ethical sourcing and protect global supply chains from environmental harm.