Unfair trading practices occur in all sectors, but are especially problematic in the food supply chain, as agricultural producers may be put under undue economic pressure.

On Tuesday 12 March, MEPs voted in favour of a new EU directive that aims to ensure fairer treatment for farmers and small and medium sized food businesses who are vulnerable to unfair treatment by their big business partners, such as supermarkets or retailers. Smaller suppliers often lack bargaining power in negotiations with large purchasers and may not have alternatives buyers.