On June 10, 2025, the Program for Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) issued the second edition of the Chain of Custody guidance document, featuring several important updates. This document remains a key reference, providing explanations and clarifications for the Chain of Custody Standard PEFC ST 2002.

Notable updates include: (i) revisions of definitions to align with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR); (ii) clarifications on legal ownership of materials during outsourced processing; (iii) proposals for alternative indicators for biodiversity and habitat in risk assessments; and (iv) the addition of a new chapter explaining the implementation of the PEFC Due Diligence System (DDS) for Tree Outside Forest (TOF) materials.

The document also clarifies requirements for certification bodies under PEFC ST 2003, including the work experience and audit qualifications required for auditors to be eligible to conduct certification audits and maintain their professional competence. Experience in equivalent certification audits is also recognized towards an auditor’s qualifications.

Regarding the use of the PEFC Label (PEFC ST 2001), the updated guide provides further explanations on how to use the PEFC Label, including guidance related to the labelling process and the use of the label on certified materials.

VFCO will provide a reference translation of this guidance document in the near future. For further updates, please visit the Standards and Guidelines section at vfcs.org.vn.

VFCO