The representatives involved decided to continue negotiating a list of other measures. This includes a stricter ban on disloyal practices such as ‘delisting’. This means that department stores may not threaten to ban products from their stores or make other excessive demands. It also concerns damages and fines that retail chains might simply impose. Another practice involves distributors who refuse to renegotiate when sellers request it due to unforeseen circumstances.
“It was important to develop measures with all actors that can still be concretized before the elections,” responds Federal Minister of Economy Pierre-Yves Dermagne. “We always ensure that the measures only benefit farmers by to strengthen their negotiating position. We also ensure that consumers do not suffer as a result,” says Dermagne. “This package of measures is an important step to guarantee a decent income for farmers thanks to fair trade practices.”
In addition to Dermagne, Federal Minister of Agriculture David Clarinval and State Secretary for Consumer Protection Alexis Bertrand were also present at the meeting. The Flemish and Walloon Ministers of Agriculture Jo Brouns and Willy Borsus also participated in the discussion.