A roundtable initiated by the Bulgarian Agrarian Chamber (BAC) brought together members of parliament, state authorities, trade unions, representatives of industry organizations, science and civil society. The main topic was the access of Bulgarian food to the domestic market and the challenges facing domestic producers. BAC, which represents the interests of over 13,000 farms, raised the issue of the inequality of local farmers vis-à-vis retail chains and the need for legislative changes.
„The topic of access to the market for Bulgarian food has been of paramount importance for BAC since the establishment of the Chamber. In 2024, we signed an agreement that emphasized the need for a law on Bulgarian food. Today's discussion is an opportunity to discuss the implementation of these ideas“, said the co-chairman of BAC - Iliya Prodanov.
“Everyone talks about prices, but little is said about the role of Bulgarian producers on the domestic market. We are here to discuss our views and propose specific guidelines for legislative changes“, emphasized Simeon Karakolev, co-chairman of BAC.
Main problems outlined during the round table:
• Price asymmetry – Bulgarian producers sell at low purchase prices, while end consumers are forced to pay significantly more due to the policies of retail chains.
• Unfair competition and vicious practices – The presence of unregulated markets, in which unregistered traders pose as agricultural producers and operate without cash registers, distorts the market. Various unfair trading practices throughout the supply chain further complicate the situation.
• Imbalance in the agri-food chain - Bulgarian producers are placed at a disadvantage compared to large retail chains and distributors, which dictate market conditions. The lack of equality leads to unfair pricing and pressure on producers.
Proposed solutions:
The majority of participants in the round table agreed on the need for legislative reforms, including:
• Amendments to the Law on Protection of Competition in order to reduce unfair trading practices.
• Drafting of a Law on the Agrarian Chamber and Industry Organizations.
• Adoption of the Law on Cooperation.
• Development of a Law on the Rules of Supply in the Agri-Food Chain.
During the meeting, the Bulgarian Agrarian Chamber undertook to draft a statement describing unfair trade practices throughout the supply chain. The aim is to take specific actions to prevent these problems.
The representatives of the BAC and the organizations present united around the opinion that urgent measures are needed to preserve the place of Bulgarian producers on the domestic market. They insist on specific legislative changes that would lead to fairer conditions for Bulgarian farmers and producers.
The Bulgarian Agrarian Chamber continues its efforts to ensure easier access for Bulgarian consumers to high-quality food produced by Bulgarian producers with local raw materials, at fair and affordable prices. The organization insists on adequate conditions for producers so that Bulgarian food can reach the market under transparent and balanced trade practices.