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The European Parliament has approved its mandate to negotiate with Member States new rules aimed at rebalancing power within the agri-food supply chain and strengthening farmers’ contractual position. The proposal, adopted with 532 votes in favour, 78 against and 25 abstentions, seeks to ensure fairer and more stable remuneration for the primary sector.
Among the key measures is the requirement for written contracts for the delivery of agricultural products, with certain exceptions that Member States may apply upon request from the relevant sector. The minimum threshold for exemption from this obligation is lowered from €10,000 to €4,000. MEPs also oppose the creation of producer organisations made up exclusively of organic farmers, in order to avoid internal competition between production models.
Regarding labelling and marketing, MEPs call for clearer criteria for the use of the terms “fair” or “equitable”, which should take into account contributions to rural development and the strengthening of producer organisations. The term “short supply chain” may only be used for EU products involving few intermediaries and limited handling or transport.
In addition, imported food must comply with the same maximum pesticide residue limits as those produced within the Union. In public procurement, Member States will have to prioritise agricultural and food products originating in the EU, particularly local and seasonal products and those with geographical indications.
MEPs also introduce a stricter definition of “meat”, reserving it exclusively for the edible parts of animals and explicitly excluding lab-grown products.
Rapporteur Céline Imart (EPP, France) stressed that the goal is to end precarious business relations and guarantee fair remuneration that reflects actual production costs. Negotiations with Member States on the final text are set to begin on 14 October.
8 october 2025/ European Parliament. https://www.europarl.europa.eu
