Unfair trading practices in the food supply chain (Communication)

The Commission wants to combat unfair trading practices in the food supply chain. It wants to examine the effectiveness of the voluntary Supply Chain Initiative (SCI) and encourage more companies and associations to join. In addition, the exchange of information about national legislation to combat unfair trading practices between the Member States will be improved. The authorities responsible for implementing national legislation will work together "effectively". The Commission wants to assess the progress of national implementation measures.

cepPolicyBrief

The Commission fails to establish an applicable definition of unfair trading practices which is important for an effective internal market. Keeping complaints confidential, as recommended, lowers the barriers to reporting unfair trading practices and thus promotes the implementation of the Member States' legislation to combat unfair trading practices. The "reinforcement" of dispute resolution procedures, called for by the Commission, may reduce the burden on the courts and lower the cost of dispute resolution.