This UNCTAD Research Partnership Platform (RPP) webinar will bring together competition law enforcers and renowned academics to learn the latest research findings on high market concentration in global food value chains, and explore competition authorities’ experiences in tackling anti-competitive practices that shape food markets worldwide.
Global food value chains play an important role in achieving food security and ensuring affordability of food prices, and the livelihoods of farmers and communities. Consumers bear the consequences of any anti-competitive practices in terms of higher prices, reduced availability and choice, or lower quality in food markets.
Highly concentrated segments of global food value chains are dominated by a handful of enterprises that can exercise pricing power in multiple national markets. This concentration has resulted from both horizontal and vertical integration of large companies. Many national competition authorities are not notified of these mergers. However, their economies will be affected by them in terms of more concentrated markets, higher prices for consumers and lower prices for farmers. This brings to our attention the importance of research and understanding of these markets, where distortions lie and how international cooperation can help address some of the challenges.
The webinar is designed to spark dialogue and collaboration among competition experts, enforcement authorities. Together, we will explore pressing competition challenges at both global and national food markets, exchange innovative ideas, and discuss possible policy options to ensure fair and competitive food markets. The webinar provides an excellent opportunity to connect with competition officials and researchers.
