MEP Barbara Bonte (PfE) has raised concerns about the logistical feasibility, IT system capacity, and economic impact of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), warning that technical limitations and administrative burdens could disrupt bulk goods flows such as grain and soya. In a parliamentary question submitted on 8 June 2026, Bonte pressed the European Commission on three specific points: the robustness and scalability of the EUDR Information System, contingency procedures for system failures, and measures to prevent disproportionate costs and disruptions for bulk logistics operators.
The question highlights a 25 MB upload limit for documentation, which Bonte argues may be insufficient for the required due diligence statements, potentially causing delays. She also notes that the regulation imposes significant logistics costs and administrative burdens on all supply chain links, with particular strain on sectors handling bulk commodities where efficient flow is essential.
Bonte's first query asks how the Commission will ensure the information system is technically robust, scalable, and adapted to bulk logistics realities to avoid freight delays. The second asks whether specific contingency procedures exist for technical faults or system failures to prevent consignments from being held up, which could have significant economic consequences and leave market participants without clear legal guidance. The third asks how the Commission intends to prevent the combination of technical limitations, onerous documentation requirements, and bulk logistics realities from leading to disproportionate administrative burdens, higher costs, and disruptions.
This is a parliamentary question, meaning the Commission is expected to respond within approximately six weeks. The answer will signal the Commission's stance on potential adjustments to the EUDR's implementation, particularly regarding IT system capacity and support for bulk commodity traders. The question reflects ongoing tensions between environmental regulation and economic competitiveness, with Bonte advocating for pragmatic solutions to avoid unintended disruptions to agricultural supply chains.
Stakeholders most impacted include EU importers and traders of bulk commodities (e.g., grain, soya), who face increased compliance costs and potential delays; EU logistics operators, who must adapt to new documentation requirements; and EU consumers, who may experience price increases if supply chains are disrupted. The Commission's response will be closely watched by industry groups seeking clarity on system capabilities and contingency planning.