The European Commission invites farmers and all actors in the food supply chain to share their views on their experiences of unfair trading practices. This survey of EU farmers and small suppliers active in the agricultural and food supply chain, covering different stages of production and distribution, is available online in all languages of the EU until 15 March 2024. Respondents can indicate whether they have recently encountered unfair trade practices or whether current legislation offers them sufficient protection against financially stronger buyers.

As the European Commission points out, after presenting on 22 February simplification options aimed at reducing the burden on EU farmers, it is also working on actions aimed at improving the position of farmers in the food chain and improving the fight against unfair trading practices. In March, the Commission will present to Member States a series of actions that may address issues such as market transparency, the implementation of the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive and its enforcement, production costs or more uniform control of existing rules on imported agricultural products.

It is emphasized that the results of the targeted consultation will be taken into account, which will start in March and will identify the main sources of concern for farmers, as well as the sources of administrative burden and complexity. The Commission finally encourages all interested parties to share their views on the administrative burden that may be associated with the Nitrates Directive.