The American Forest & Paper Association (AF&PA) has voiced support for the initial trade agreement reached between the United States and the European Union, describing it as a positive step toward fairer and more balanced trade in the vital pulp, paper, and packaging sectors.
However, AF&PA is raising concerns that the EU’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) remains a significant non-tariff trade barrier for U.S. producers.
In a statement released today, AF&PA President and CEO Heidi Brock praised the U.S. administration’s efforts in negotiating the deal, which supports the $3.5 billion worth of essential U.S. forest products shipped annually to the EU. Brock urged the administration to press for a U.S. exemption from the EUDR, arguing that the regulation does not account for the U.S.'s strong record in sustainable forest management.
The EUDR, designed to curb global deforestation, imposes stringent traceability requirements on all forest product imports, regardless of their origin. AF&PA notes that while the United States is not a global deforestation hotspot, American manufacturers must comply with the same costly and complex geolocation tracking as producers in higher-risk regions. The association says this places an undue burden on U.S. exporters.
“The United States is not a source of global deforestation concerns, yet is subject to the EUDR’s strict requirements that don’t recognize the reality of our sustainable forestry practices,” Brock stated. “We look forward to working with the Administration to support the American forest products industry and its workforce.”
The U.S. forest products sector supports more than 925,000 jobs—many in rural communities—and generates over $435 billion in products each year. As one of the nation’s largest manufacturing employers, AF&PA’s members emphasize their ongoing commitment to sustainability and renewable energy.
With trade negotiations ongoing, AF&PA will continue advocating for policies that ensure U.S. pulp and paper products remain competitive in key overseas markets, free from undue regulatory barriers.
The American Forest & Paper Association represents U.S. manufacturers of pulp, paper, tissue, and paper-based packaging, advocating for trade, economic competitiveness, and sustainable forest management.
