Directive on unfair trading practices in business-to-business relationships in the agricultural and food supply chain

This regulation aims to improve cooperation between national authorities responsible for enforcing rules against unfair trading practices in the agricultural and food supply chain. It seeks to ensure these rules are applied consistently across the EU, especially when businesses operate in multiple Member States.

The regulation affects businesses involved in the agricultural and food supply chain, particularly those engaging in cross-border transactions. It also impacts the national enforcement authorities tasked with investigating and penalizing unfair trading practices.

Key changes include establishing clearer procedures for mutual assistance between national enforcement bodies, enabling them to share information and support investigations in other Member States. It also introduces mechanisms for coordinated actions when widespread unfair practices are detected across borders.

The regulation specifies timelines for responding to requests for information and assistance, aiming for efficiency. It also outlines conditions under which requests can be refused and introduces a system for notifying other authorities about potential unfair trading practices with a cross-border dimension.