Control Union Sri Lanka Issues Two World-First Deforestation-Free Certificates

For the first time in the world, Control Union Sri Lanka successfully issued a deforestation-free certification and the world’s first deforestation-free certification for a company group. The deforestation-free certification for the company group was awarded to Samson Rubber Industries Private Limited.

The significance lies in the fact that Sri Lanka became the first country to implement the Deforestation-Free Standard (DFS) framework introduced internationally by the Control Union. The purpose of this framework is to assist manufacturing companies and supply chain operations in complying with the latest European deforestation-free regulatory requirements.

Following a year-long collaboration among Control Union groups worldwide, the DFS standard framework was developed and introduced in mid-2025. Under this standard, the first certificate was issued to Hapugastenne Estates, which provides verification for full compliance of twelve rubber estates managed by Browns Estates in terms of legal requirements, health and safety, workers’ rights, deforestation-free practices, and land-use standards.

The group certification awarded to Samson Rubber Industries Private Limited allows small-scale rubber farmers contributing to the production process under the group to also receive certification. This enables participation while minimizing administrative and financial burdens, giving small-scale farmers the opportunity to comply with proper regulatory standards.

“This is not only significant for Hapugastenne Estates or Samson Rubber Industries but is a milestone for the entire agricultural sector in Sri Lanka. It reflects the readiness of Sri Lankan producers to follow global standards on sustainability and supply chain transparency,” said Roshan Ranawaka, Managing Director of Control Union Sri Lanka.

Another notable aspect is that after December 30, 2026, having deforestation-free European certification will become a mandatory requirement for small and micro-suppliers exporting rubber, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, soy, timber, and cattle to European markets.

Control Union’s DFS framework provides a clear, independently audited compliance pathway that covers all relevant sectors. The certification process includes monitoring field-level activities, assessing geographic data, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring full supply chain transparency.

Currently, Control Union supports clients worldwide in establishing European-compliant supply chains. By the end of this year, demand for DFS certification is expected to grow significantly. Since documentation preparation, auditing, and system verification require some time, producers and buyers are encouraged to begin the process as soon as possible.

Caption:
The world’s first deforestation-free certification for a company group was awarded to Samson Rubber Industries (top) and a deforestation-free certification to Hapugastenne Estates (bottom).