The Minister of Agriculture, Florin Barbu, has submitted to the European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food and to ministers from the Member States four proposals to amend Directive (EU) 2019/633 on unfair trading practices in the agri-food supply chain. The initiative aims to rebalance the contractual relationship between large retail chains and producers, in a context marked by pressure on production costs and the consolidation of the commercial sector at European level.

The first proposal concerns limiting the share of private labels to a maximum of 20% of the volume generated by retail stores across the European Union. According to the position expressed, the expansion of the private label segment reduces shelf space available for products made by independent producers and may affect their ability to capitalize on investments and build competitive brands in the long term.

The second proposed measure refers to applying a similar or identical commercial markup for the same product range. The argument invoked is the elimination of situations in which, within the same category, the markup varies significantly, which may generate competitive distortions and unequal treatment among suppliers.

The third proposal provides for the elimination of the re-invoicing of rebates and discounts to suppliers. In practice, these mechanisms may lead to the transfer of additional costs to producers, reducing margins and affecting contractual predictability. Stricter regulation would aim to reduce financial pressure on farmers and processors.

The fourth measure seeks to clarify the conditions for applying commercial discounts, especially in situations where reductions may lead to sales below production cost. According to the stated position, such practices may affect the economic sustainability of upstream operators and create imbalances in the agri-food supply chain.

Directive (EU) 2019/633 currently establishes a list of prohibited and conditional practices in the relationship between buyers and suppliers. Any amendments would require consensus at European level. The proposals put forward open a broader debate on the distribution of added value within the food chain and on the role of regulation in ensuring fair market access for producers.