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ESG
2026-02-259 min3

EU CSRD and CSDDD Regulatory Relaxation in 2026: Updated Compliance Checklist for Korean Export SMEs

With the EU scaling back CSRD and CSDDD requirements, this post provides a practical compliance roadmap for Korean export-oriented SMEs.

KITIM Consulting Team

What Has Changed in EU ESG Regulations

In early 2025, the EU announced the 'Omnibus Package' modifying CSRD and CSDDD.

CSRD Changes

  • Smaller listed SME reporting deadline delayed by at least 2 years to 2027+
  • Non-listed SMEs subject only to voluntary VSME standard
  • CSDDD Changes

  • Thresholds raised: 1,000 employees/EUR 450M → 3,000 employees/EUR 900M
  • Supply chain due diligence initially limited to Tier-1 suppliers
  • Impact on Korean Export SMEs

    Possible Exemption from Direct Obligations

    Korean SMEs under 500 employees with revenue under EUR 150M and no EU subsidiaries are likely exempt from direct CSRD reporting.

    Indirect Pressure Continues

    EU buyers under CSRD must disclose Scope 3 emissions and human rights/environmental due diligence data from their supply chains—creating de facto disclosure pressure on Korean suppliers.

    Sector Risk: High (auto parts, textiles, electronics) / Medium (food, chemicals) / Low (software, medical devices)

    2026 Compliance Checklist

    Immediate

  • [ ] Check for ESG questionnaires from EU buyers
  • [ ] Review buyer contract ESG clauses
  • [ ] Assess Scope 1/2 GHG emissions data availability
  • Short-Term (Within 2026)

  • [ ] ISO 14064-1 carbon footprint measurement (5–20M KRW)
  • [ ] EcoVadis registration (EUR 1,000–5,000/year)
  • [ ] Draft VSME voluntary report
  • Domestic Support

  • MOTIE ESG Supply Chain Program (2026 budget: 15B KRW)
  • KOTRA 50% EcoVadis cost subsidy
  • KITIM Consulting

    KITIM supports the full ESG compliance journey—CSRD/CSDDD response, GHG inventory, EcoVadis prep, and VSME reporting.

    CSRDCSDDDEU ESG RegulationSupply Chain Due DiligenceExport SME
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