UK begins new Fair Dealing regulations for pig supply chain

The Fair Dealing Obligations (Pigs) Regulations 2025 are the direct result of the pig crisis of 2021 and 2022 that exposed serious imbalances of power in the supply chain and the lack of credible contractual relations in place between pig sellers and buyers.

The new pig sector regulations, developed in consultation with industry over the last three years, follow similar legislation already in place in the dairy industry, with the process also ongoing for the fresh produce and egg sectors.

The regulations are being phased in over 12 months. From August 13, all new pig supply contracts will need to be in writing by default. This will also apply to existing agreements from August 13, 2026.

The contracts will need to include, among other things, clear terms on:

• The duration of the agreement.
• The pricing mechanism used.
• The supply of contracted pig numbers for both buyers and sellers.
• Force majeure clauses in relation to the collection or delivery of pigs for producers and processors.
• A dispute resolution procedure.

During its discussions with Defra, the NPA was adamant that the ability to review and alter the regulations should be included within the regulation. There is a requirement for the Secretary of State to review the regulations and publish a report at least every five years, including an assessment of whether the provisions need to be changed.