Fernando Bellese de Cesaro, Senior Director Beef and Leather Supply Chains at WWF, writes on LinkedIn: The European Union’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) represents a crucial step towards combating deforestation associated with agricultural commodities. However, its impact will be limited if other major markets do not follow suit.

Recognizing this, China, both government and private sectors, is demonstrating a growing commitment to deforestation-free and conversion-free (DCF) supply chains.

This shift is driven by an understanding of the interconnectedness between deforestation, climate change, and food security. Addressing deforestation is seen as a critical strategy to mitigate climate change, protect biodiversity, and ensure stable food supplies.

In late 2024, the Chinese Meat Association (CMA) formally requested Brazilian exporters to initiate a pilot program for sourcing deforestation- and conversion-free meat. This request is significant as it is linked to the potential for exports of bovine offal to China. Access to the Chinese offal market, currently unavailable to Brazilian exporters, would serve as a strong incentive for the sector to accelerate the implementation of DCF supply chains.

This action demonstrates how international governments, associations, and buyers can leverage their influence to promote more sustainable markets.

Congratulations to our colleagues from WWF facilitating this dialogue.