Agriculture minister Barnaby Joyce is reminding producers to have their say on market power in the agriculture sector, and in particular the recommendation by the Harper Review Panel to amend Section 46 of the Competition and Consumer Act.

“Anti-competitive behaviour and misuse of market power was a core theme of feedback received from the majority of agricultural stakeholders as part of the Harper Review into Competition Policy,” Minister Joyce said today.

“This government is committed to rectifying supply chain issues and fostering a competitive and transparent business sector so that all participants in the market place are treated fairly. The Harper Review Panel recommendation to amend Section 46, which relates to the misuse of market power, is an important element in achieving this.

“The Government is determined to get the design of these reforms right, and to that end the Treasurer has released a discussion paper on how the Review Panel’s recommendations could strengthen our approach to preventing misuse of market power in supply chains.

“On the back of the Harper Review Panel recommendation, I want any farmers who have experienced anti-competitive behaviour to share their ideas. Submissions close on February 12 and it’s important any measures introduced are informed by the experiences and ideas of people in the agriculture sector.”

Minister Joyce noted that there was widespread support to strengthen the current misuse of market power provisions in line with the Harper Review recommendation, including by the current ACCC Chairman, Rod Sims, as well as the former Chairman, Professor Allan Fels.

To view the discussion paper and make a submission, visit treasury.gov.au

Source: Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources.