In 2024 and 2025, the NVWA conducted inspections at 23 importers of disposable items made from wood fibers or paper, such as paper cups or toilet paper. 19 of these inspected companies did not comply with the rules of the European Timber Regulation (EUTR). The selected shipments of the other 4 companies did not fall under the EUTR for various reasons. 18 companies were issued an enforcement order with a penalty, and one company received an official warning.
Companies that place wood or wooden products, such as furniture or paper, on the European market or trade in them must comply with the requirements of the European Timber Regulation (EUTR). Companies must meet a broad range of requirements and are subject to strict documentation obligations. This prevents products made from illegally logged wood from being placed on the market.
Preventing recurrence
The inspections at the 23 importers focused on disposable items originating from outside the EU. These products are intended for single use and therefore do not use resources sustainably. Disposable items include, besides paper cups and toilet paper, sanitary products, tissues, single-use packaging material, gift wrap, paper goods, and paper bags. The enforcement order imposed can amount to a maximum of 100,000 euros in this case. This is to prevent recurrence. These companies will also be re-inspected within a period of 2 years to see if they have made sufficient improvements.
Publication of inspection results
By publishing the inspection results for the EUTR, the NVWA shows the consequences when companies place unchecked or illegal wood products on the European market. Additionally, buyers and consumers gain more insight into compliance within the sector.
Click here for the inspection results of disposable items.
More information
Consumers and companies can contact our Customer Contact Center. For questions about this news report, journalists can contact our press officers.
