The aim of the meeting was to assess the functioning of the EU Directive on Unfair Trading Practices (UTP) from the perspective of the member states and to identify possible directions for its further development.

Visit to the Centre for Translational Medicine

Before the start of the meeting, members of the SCA visited the Centre for Translational Medicine at the Warsaw University of Life Sciences. During the visit, they had the opportunity to learn about the university’s research infrastructure, including modern laboratories used in scientific work supporting the development of agriculture and the food sector.

Stronger Farmers - A Fairer Food Supply Chain

Directive (EU) 2019/633 of 17 April 2019 introduced a minimum list of prohibited unfair trading practices between businesses in the agricultural and food supply chain. It also obliges member states to ensure effective enforcement of these rules.

The Polish presidency emphasises that increasing the bargaining power of farmers in relation to stronger market players – such as retail chains or processing plants – is crucial for building a fair and competitive agri-food market in Europe.

Time to Evaluate the UTP Directive

The Directive entered into force in 2019 and its provisions have been applicable in member states since 2021. The European Commission is required to conduct the first review of its implementation by 1 November 2025.

During this period, the agricultural sector has faced market instability, price fluctuations and rising production costs. These circumstances have highlighted the importance of effectively countering unfair trading practices and ensuring adequate protection for food suppliers.

Shared Diagnosis, Shared Recommendations

The discussion initiated by the Polish presidency enabled member states to exchange experiences on the application and enforcement of the UTP Directive. The conclusions drawn from the debate will serve as the basis for formulating recommendations to the European Commission on potential amendments to EU legislation.