According to the Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden, the EUDR officially took effect on December 30, 2024, imposing strict requirements on agricultural products, including coffee. The Nordic market, comprising Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, which already upholds high sustainability standards, will further tighten its controls on imported goods.

Given this situation, Vietnamese coffee exporters must proactively adapt to sustain and grow their market presence. Compliance with EUDR is not only a challenge but also a chance for Vietnamese businesses to reinforce their standing in the global supply chain.

Under the EUDR, coffee products exported to the EU must be deforestation-free, comply with production-country laws, and provide precise geolocation data for their cultivation areas.

While adhering to the EUDR poses difficulties, it also offers Vietnamese coffee enterprises an opportunity to enhance their reputation in the international market. Collaboration with international organisations and leveraging available support are key factors for successful adaptation.

To meet these requirements, businesses should work closely with farmers’ associations and producer groups to collect accurate data on cultivation areas. Additionally, investing in supply chain tracking technology and digital solutions will ensure transparency and effective traceability.

Vietnamese businesses can participate in sustainability certification initiatives such as Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade, 4C, or Enveritas to build a compliant supply chain. Furthermore, engaging with organisations like Global Traceability, Satelligence, or Sourcetrace can help in optimising tracking processes.

EU support programmes, such as the Team Europe Initiative, also serve as valuable resources for companies seeking compliance tools and funding.

According to the Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden, early and thorough preparation for EUDR compliance will not only help businesses mitigate risks but also strengthen their credibility among Nordic customers. Having proper documentation and certification for traceability and sustainability will help build trust and reinforce their market position.

In addition to compliance, businesses should actively communicate their environmental efforts, integrating sustainability as a core brand value. Participating in Nordic trade fairs such as the Stockholm Coffee Festival or Copenhagen Coffee Fair can help businesses connect with potential customers and expand their market reach.

EUDR compliance entails significant costs, including data collection and supply chain monitoring technology implementation. Businesses should proactively allocate budgets towards these investments and develop support programmes for local farmers to ensure a stable supply chain.

Seeking financial support from international organisations or investors is a viable solution to alleviate financial burdens while accelerating the transition toward sustainability.

As Nordic markets prioritise environmental protection and sustainability, compliance with the EUDR is not just a legal obligation but also an opportunity to demonstrate corporate social responsibility.

For long-term adaptation, the Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden recommends that businesses develop green production strategies, from using sustainable materials to implementing eco-friendly processes. Additionally, aligning brands with forest conservation and climate change mitigation narratives will enhance product value in the eyes of consumers.