One more step towards a more efficient food chain. Ignacio Garcia Magarzo. ASEDAS

The Commercial Code of Practice is the result of a long negotiation work almost two years and much effort we have done all parties to make self-regulation in an instrument at the service of chain operators. We think we have achieved the goal of agreeing on a voluntary agreement, as we forced the Law on the Food Chain.

We believe that the final text of this code responds largely to approach and made from ASEDAS and IFLA in 2007, the first code of its kind in Spain and one of the first in Europe. Therefore, we are satisfied with this text, which is not perfect, but it seems a very good starting point to launch the system autorregulaciónque proposed law. Taking into account the different initial claims of each of the parties It has proved a good text with effective content, which many situations contemplanuna to achieve a balance between the various links in the chain.

It is clear that there will continue to work to improve, since the Code does not solve the structural problems of the sector, or guarantee prices or market exceptional weather circumstances. However, it serves to provide greater security and a more predictable relationships that promote understanding between the different links. While it is true that the Code no obligations for all, not all clauses are prohibitions, but there are also suggestions that help us improve. The text seeks to improve trade relations between the different actors, in order to achieve balance and equality among all. Thus, the period of negotiations, the time should be closed, etc. are set All this without placing the other parties in positions of weakness.

But perhaps the most valuable of this negotiation process has been able to ascertain the problems arising as a result of certain actions that are not done intentionally, but that can have a negative reflection for any party. Having studied together, this has allowed us to learn the needs we have each link in the chain. The work we have done has been very productive for the information we have obtained and we could share, but the important thing is that the proposed measures are working. The success of the Code will depend on its degree of utilization by businesses and can be evaluated after a few months.

We are satisfied with the result, because at no time has been raised to benefit some of the parts of the chain and harm others or consumers. For distribution, consumers are the priority. In this sense, we believe that the measures proposed in the code help increase the efficiency with which we serve the consumer and improve relations between the various links in the chain. We believe that this Code will contribute to improving trade relations in the food chain will result undoubtedly benefit consumers.

Ignacio G. Magarzo, CEO of ASEDAS (Spanish Association of Distributors, Supermarkets and Supermarkets).