Farmers to get fairer deals for combinable crops

Arable farmers could soon benefit from new legislation that aims to tackle unfair practices in the combinable crops supply chain.

Defra said the review – which launched on Thursday 5 June – is a major step towards ensuring producers have clear, fair and enforceable contracts, and cover pricing, supply volumes, data, and dispute resolution.

Included are combinable crops such as cereals, oilseeds, and pulses, all harvested using a combine harvester.

See also: Fairer supply chain regulations for pig farmers become law

The review builds on reforms already made in the dairy and pig sector.

The Fair Dealing Obligations (Milk) Regulations came into effect on 9 July 2024, and the Fair Dealing Obligations (Pigs) Regulations have also recently received parliamentary approval.

“This review is a major step forward in giving arable farmers a stronger voice, better protection, and fairer returns for the food they produce,” said Defra secretary Steve Reed.   

Defra added that it is collaborating with devolved governments, and will continue to develop a fairer, more transparent supply chain that benefits both farmers and the public.  

Responding to the Defra announcement, NFU Combinable Crops Board chairman Jamie Burrows said: “The NFU has long called for fair dealing in our food and drink supply chains to sustainably support British farming. 

“NFU members in the combinable crops supply chain consistently report that it does not operate fairly, and has not done so for many years, with growers bearing most of the risk.

“Greater transparency and certainty over the operation of contracts would boost grower confidence and allow us to make informed business decisions which would help improve profitability and drive long-term investment in the industry.

“The NFU will gather the views of its members and looks forward to responding to this consultation when it opens later this year.”

A formal public consultation will be launched soon, giving farmers and other stakeholders the opportunity to share their experiences.