When may I submit a simplified declaration?

Simplified declaration applies to countries with low-risk classification

A simplified declaration is possible when the product originates from a country, or part of a country, that has been classified as low-risk within the benchmarking system of Regulation (EU) 2023/1115. This classification is published by the European Commission and is independent of the question of what role a company itself has in the supply chain: it concerns the risk classification of the country of origin, not the size or type of the undertaking. As long as an area is classified as low-risk, the detailed risk assessment required for standard or high-risk areas is not necessary.

The simplified declaration nonetheless remains a declaration with substance: data on legality and origin are still recorded and retained, only the more extensive risk analysis and associated mitigation measures are not required. Because country classifications can change, and because Regulation (EU) 2025/2650 has modified the system surrounding that classification, the classification of a country of origin is not a fixed matter but something that is reviewed periodically. From which date an operator or trader is subject to this option depends on the combination of role and product, just as with the full due diligence declaration — those four entry dates do not align.

Legal basis: risk classification in the regulation and the 2025 amendment

The basis for the simplified declaration lies in the article on simplified due diligence requirements in Regulation (EU) 2023/1115, which links the option to the classification of countries or parts thereof as low-risk. Regulation (EU) 2025/2650 has adapted the benchmarking system and the implementation periods surrounding it. The current classification of countries can be consulted via the EU information system for Regulation (EU) 2023/1115.