Common Organisation of Markets Amended by Cypriot EU Presidency

The Cypriot EU Presidency has reached a political agreement to amend the regulatory framework of the Common Organisation of Markets (COM), a significant initiative to strengthen the position of farmers in the market. The amendment, a priority for Cyprus, aims to ensure fairer conditions in the agri-food chain and respond to the concerns of European producers. The agreement provides for mandatory written contracts between farmers and buyers, specifying price, quantity, and terms of cooperation, limiting unfair practices. In addition, the labeling of origin of agricultural products is strengthened without additional administrative burden. The Cypriot Presidency played a crucial role in the negotiations, successfully reshaping provisions that could create dysfunctions.