Unfair conditions for farmers? The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection brings charges against Bunge Polska and Procam Polska

The President of the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection brought charges against Bunge Polska and Procam Polska of unfair use of contractual advantage against farmers. According to the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection, companies transferred the risk related to the so-called force majeure – including droughts, frosts or hailstorms.

The office reminded in Monday's announcement that farmers should not be punished for the consequences of such events.

According to the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection, both companies belong to large international concerns and are significant recipients of agricultural produce in Europe. The allegations concern situations in which farmers affected by force majeure not only did not generate income, but also had to pay contractual penalties.

The Office found that the contracts concluded with farmers included provisions making them liable for failure to fulfill obligations in situations beyond their control. In the case of Procam Polska, the deadline for reporting the occurrence of force majeure was too short.

“There is no doubt that agricultural production depends on many factors that farmers themselves have no influence on. Extraordinary weather conditions, such as droughts or hail, can drastically affect the financial situation of farmers. The provisions contained in contracts with recipients should not further worsen it. Therefore, in accordance with Polish law, contracts for the supply of agricultural products must allow for the release of suppliers from liability for non-performance. or improper performance of the contract when the reason is force majeure,” emphasized Tomasz Chróstny, president of the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection, quoted in the announcement.

The Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) reminded that these are further actions against companies that burden farmers with the effects of force majeure. Previously punished were, among others: PolishAgri and Cefetra Polska, and in August 2025, the appeals court upheld the decision in the latter case, setting the fine at nearly PLN 1.2 million. (PAP)

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