In the ever-evolving landscape of the confectionery industry, the new year brings with it a host of growth projections and regulatory updates that are reshaping confectioners’ preparations and priorities for the year ahead. With new legal requirements around deforestation compliance, human rights protections, and plastic waste management taking center stage in 2025, confectionery manufacturers are actively seeking the latest insights and information to stay ahead of the curve.
One of the key regulatory updates that confectioners are gearing up for is the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which is set to come into force in December 2025 after a 12-month delay. This regulation aims to ensure that products like cocoa and palm oil, which are commonly used in confectionery products, are sourced from deforestation-free areas and comply with the relevant producing country’s legislation. Confectionery producers are diligently working towards aligning their operations with the EUDR requirements to avoid any disruptions in their supply chain.
To comply with the EUDR, confectioners are focusing on enhancing their supply chain transparency and traceability. They are also taking proactive steps to collect detailed information, conduct risk assessments, and mitigate any non-compliance risks through independent surveys and audits. Countries like Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Malaysia, and Indonesia, which are major producers of cocoa and palm oil, are implementing national traceability systems and certification schemes to ensure compliance with the regulation.
In addition to the EUDR, confectioners are also preparing for the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence (CSDDD) Directive and the Forced Labor Regulation (FLR), which were officially passed by the European Parliament in January 2025. These regulations aim to protect food supply chains, including those in the confectionery industry, from human rights abuses and environmental violations. Companies will be required to demonstrate evidence of their efforts to protect human rights and the environment in their supply chains.
Moreover, as the industry continues to address the issue of plastic pollution, efforts towards implementing the Global Plastics Treaty are gaining momentum. While the treaty failed to materialize in 2024, stakeholders in the confectionery industry are actively participating in initiatives to tackle plastic pollution and transition towards more sustainable waste management practices. The treaty, once enacted, will cover the entire lifecycle of plastic, from design to disposal, and will play a crucial role in shaping the industry’s approach to plastic waste.
Overall, confectioners are proactively adapting to the changing regulatory landscape by investing in sustainable sourcing practices, enhancing supply chain transparency, and aligning their operations with the latest legal requirements. By staying informed and proactive, confectionery manufacturers are positioning themselves for success in a regulatory environment that prioritizes ethical and sustainable practices.
