The German Frozen Food Institute (dti), the umbrella organization representing the frozen food industry, has expressed strong support for the European Commission’s newly proposed measures to reduce administrative burdens on businesses.
The initiative, part of the “Omnibus Package,” aims to postpone or limit various sustainability reporting requirements introduced under the “Green Deal.” According to Commission estimates, these adjustments could save businesses approximately EUR6.3bn in administrative costs.
“The simplifications announced yesterday by EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in important EU sustainability regulations, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), are an important step in the right direction. In particular, the reduction of bureaucracy for medium-sized companies is an important signal for the competitiveness of the industry,” said Sabine Eichner, Managing Director of dti.
Eichner emphasized that while the industry remains committed to sustainable practices, the focus should shift from excessive documentation to meaningful action: “Sustainability managers in our industry should be able to use their skills for genuine, progressive projects – and less for documentation.”
As an advocate for numerous medium-sized companies, the German Frozen Food Institute particularly welcomes the increased thresholds for reporting obligations and simplified sustainability reporting standards. Eichner noted that “the introduction of a voluntary reporting standard for smaller companies can help companies to concentrate on their core business and innovative solutions for sustainable food production.” She also praised the limitation of compliance rules to direct suppliers and changes in civil liability requirements.
The frozen food industry has long demonstrated its commitment to sustainability throughout its value chain, with many companies already investing in climate-friendly production methods, energy-efficient cooling technologies, and sustainable supply chains. The industry’s goal remains promoting sustainability across economic, ecological, and social dimensions.
“In order for frozen food companies to continue to successfully implement their sustainability initiatives, practical regulation is needed,” Eichner stated. “The documentation and reporting obligations must be designed in such a way that companies can meet the requirements efficiently and in a resource-saving manner.”
The organization has called on both EU officials and the incoming German federal government to maintain this course of reducing bureaucratic burdens while ensuring practical implementation. “Sustainability and fair supply chains must not be slowed down by excessive reporting obligations and complex documentation requirements,” concluded Eichner. “The frozen food industry stands by its responsibility and will continue to invest in sustainable solutions. However, the framework conditions must enable practical implementation.”
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