Last August, the Fair Dealing Obligations (Pigs) Regulations 2025 become law, requiring all new pig‑purchase contracts from that date onward to be in writing, signed, and include clearly defined terms on pricing, duration, volumes, termination and dispute resolution.
This is a reminder that by 13 August this year, all existing contracts, regardless of when they were signed, must meet the new standards. We’re flagging this now as we’ve been hearing that there’s some lack of awareness of this 2026 requirement deadline. While some exemptions apply under the new law, it’s worth noting that producers may lodge complaints for non‑compliance, potentially resulting in fines (up to 1 % of a purchasing company’s annual turnover) or compensation awards.
With only three months to go, we’re encouraging pig processors to proactively review and update both their older contracts that have been running from before 13 August 2025 as well as their new contracting templates to ensure compliance.
We are the UKs largest trade body for the meat industry and provide expert advice on trade issues, bespoke technical advice and access to government policy makers
We are proud to count businesses of all sizes and specialties as members. They range from small, family run abattoirs serving local customers to the largest meat processing companies responsible for supplying some of our best-loved brands to shops and supermarkets.
We are further strengthened by our associate Members who work in industries that support and supply our meat processing companies.
We are the voice of the British meat industry.
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