EU retailers highlight concerns over market fragmentation and call for action to address imbalances in the food chain
The EU agrifood policy for the next mandate should focus on removing barriers to investment in the agrifood sector, according to Christel Delberghe, director general of retailers’ association EuroCommerce. Delberghe emphasized the importance of improving competitiveness and encouraging sustainable solutions to support farmers.
Pressure to strengthen farmers’ bargaining power in the food chain has led to calls for new rules for the supply chain from the European People’s Party (EPP), the Socialists and Democrats (S&D), and Renew Europe. The European Commission plans to propose changes to the Common Agricultural Policy regulation on contracts and collective bargaining for farmers, as well as a proposal for cross-border enforcement of the 2019 Unfair Trading Practices (UTPs) directive.
Delberghe highlighted the need for EU-wide definitions of sustainability and harmonized nutrition labeling to address single market fragmentation. However, EuroCommerce cautioned against stricter cross-border enforcement, warning against protectionist measures that could hinder market operations.
The retail industry is closely monitoring developments in France and Spain, where laws impacting B2B commercial relations and production costs for farmers are under review. Delberghe called for clarity on health and sustainability criteria, advocating for the adoption of the Nutriscore labeling system and the implementation of a law on sustainable food systems.
Overall, the focus is on improving sustainability and nutrition labeling to empower consumers in supporting food producers. Delberghe stressed the importance of alignment on key criteria and definitions of sustainability to drive value for farmers in the food chain.
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John Peterson graduated with a degree in Agricultural Sciences from Wageningen University in the Netherlands. His specialization is in sustainable crop production and soil health management. John is passionate about integrating modern technology with traditional farming methods to enhance productivity while preserving the environment. He currently works as a consultant, helping farmers adopt sustainable practices.