Insight

Through implementing data collection systems, investments in compliance systems, as well as personnel resources to manage Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) regulation data and reporting requirements, Lederer GmbH is actively preparing for CBAM’s definitive phase, with a commitment to streamline its processes to meet the start date of January 2026.

Lederer offers a wide range of fasteners, including screws, bolts, nuts and specialised connection elements, alongside services such as ‘Just in Time’ delivery and customised inventory management. “Our global sourcing ensures high-quality products at competitive prices, meeting diverse industry needs,” comments Volker Lederer, managing director at Lederer. “We stand out through precision, reliability and strong supplier relationships that guarantee consistent quality. Advanced logistics and proactive regulatory compliance further enhance our market position, which is also further strengthened by investments we have made in regards to CBAM.”

These investments include specialised software and personnel resources to manage CBAM data and reporting requirements, with the appointment of Hanna Dudel-Wiese as head of project manager/CBAM officer. Volker explains: “Our recent investments streamline compliance by reducing the administrative bottlenecks for our company. This enables our customers to benefit from reliable supply chain despite regulatory changes. Our proactive approach ensures minimal disruptions and fosters trust.”

Hanna adds: “Climate change is a global problem that needs global solutions. The EU’s CBAM is a tool to put a price on carbon emitted in the production of carbon intensive goods entering the EU and to promote cleaner industrial production in third countries. As Lederer imports, we will take care of CBAM. As a future registered CBAM importer, it is important that we ensure all supply chains continue to function smoothly.”

“We also use data collected as part of CBAM to evaluate our suppliers within our supplier management and work with them towards lower emission production and a reduction in CO₂ emissions,” continues Hanna. “Our existing global suppliers are adapting well to regulatory demands and we are continuously assessing sourcing options to balance compliance and competitiveness. For Lederer, in terms of our supply chain – long-term relationships guide our decisions.”

With the implementation of data collection systems, as well as working towards accurate emission reporting, despite challenges in estimating certificate costs, Lederer is also implementing regular training for its team, as well as clear CBAM guidelines for suppliers, to ensure it can handle regulatory demands. Furthermore, Lederer receives significant support through the activities of EFDA’s (European Fastener Distributor Association) CBAM Working Group, in which it is also able to participate as an active member. Volker mentions: “The supplier template created within this Working Group for the exchange of CBAM data is an enormous help in data procurement. The work of this Group has impact far beyond our industry.”

He continues: “CBAM will raise fastener prices due to certificate costs and compliance burdens, reshaping market dynamics. It may encourage sourcing from the EU or low emission suppliers to simplify reporting, though quality and cost remain key drivers. Whilst we have not significantly altered our global supplier base, as they are adapting to CBAM requirements, the market will need to balance regulatory pressures with commercial priorities. For smaller importers, it may become difficult to continue importing CBAM goods because they cannot manage the high personnel and financial expenses associated with it. Smaller exporters, for example in China and Taiwan, also face enormously large challenges due to the requirements. This fragmentation among importers and exporters means market consolidation in the EU cannot be ruled out.”

Other challenges include the calculation of CBAM certificate costs remaining uncertain due to fluctuating carbon prices and unclear emission baselines. Volker states: “Verification of non-EU supplier data also lacks clear guidelines, complicating compliance efforts. More detailed methodologies from the European Commission would reduce administrative challenges. These clarifications are critical for effective planning and we hope that the relief measures for CBAM proposed in the EU’s Omnibus Package will significantly reduce the data collection burden and administrative overhead, as well as eliminate ambiguities.”

Looking to the future, Lederer plans to further enhance its digital infrastructure to improve CBAM reporting and emissions tracking, in a step that will strengthen its compliance and align with environmental goals. “Sustainability will remain a critical focus as customers and regulators demand greener practices,” concludes Volker. “Through our involvement with EFDA, as well as continuous investments, we must ensure Lederer is thinking globally and living up to its obligations to work in a more sustainable and climate friendly way. CBAM may also expand to cover additional sectors or emission types and businesses must prepare for these evolving environmental standards.”