The European Commission published a report from the European Competition Network (ECN) which shows that active enforcement of competition law in the food sector across Europe, in particular at the processing and manufacturing levels, has benefited farmers, suppliers and consumers. From 2004 to 2011, European competition authorities have investigated more than 180 antitrust cases.

A report produced by the European Competition Network (ECN) and published by the European Commission shows that the food sector across the EU has been benefited by the active enforcement of competition law, in particular at the processing and manufacturing levels. The report provides detailed information on how competition works in the food sector on the basis of the most recent activities carried out by both the European Commission and the national competition authorities in this area. The Commission presented a set of measures to achieve cheaper and more competitive food prices in Europe.

The report conclusions, according the European Commission shows the food sector has been a priority of competition authorities in Europe over the last few years and that their action has intensified since the food price crisis broke out in 2007. Particularly, competition authorities have analysed how food markets are working. Much of this work has shown that there were many explanations for unfavourable market developments other than lack of competition among market players.

On the other hand, competition authorities have also called for regulatory reform such as the amendment or repeal of laws hindering the development of retail stores and the adoption of codes or laws to address unfair commercial practices. Moreover competition authorities have invited producers to increase efficiencies and strengthen their position in the value chain through, among other things, the creation of cooperatives.