There are just two days left to complete an important survey issued by Agricultural Supply Chain Adjudicator (ASCA) to help better understand the current challenges the pig sector faces and awareness of the Fair Dealing Obligations (Pigs) FDOP regulations. Â
The FDOP regulations became law in August 2025, initially covering only new pig‑purchase contracts. From August 13, 2026, unless producers opt out, all pig contracts, both new and pre-existing, will need to be in writing, signed and to include clearly defined terms on, among other things:
- 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.
The survey – which can be completed here – invites producers, processors and others working across the industry to share their experiences and reflections.
Specifically, the survey will help the adjudicator, Richard Thompson, and his office understand:
- Awareness of the Fair Dealing Obligations (Pigs) Regulations 2025.
- Awareness of ASCA’s role and functions.
It takes around 10 minutes to complete and the deadline has been extended to July 31.
In a blog, Mr Thompson said the feedback will help identify where further guidance, communication or engagement may be needed. “It will also help us understand how the regulations are operating in practice and inform discussions with policy colleagues in Defra,” he said.
He noted that the UK pig sector has faced considerable challenges in recent months. “Many producers and processors are navigating volatile prices, rising input costs and wider supply chain uncertainty, all of which can place additional pressure on commercial relationships,” he said.
“Against this backdrop, confidence, clarity and fairness across the supply chain are more important than ever.”
The ASCA role
His role as ASCA is to support fairness and transparency across the agricultural supply chains covered by the Fair Dealing Obligations, including the pig sector.
This includes raising awareness of the regulations, engaging with stakeholders and understanding how the sector is experiencing the changes.
“My work in the milk sector has shown how important regular communication and engagement are in building trust and confidence across the supply chain,” said Mr Thompson, who met producers at the recent British Pig & Poultry Fair.
“I welcome the opportunity to meet anyone involved in the pig sector, whether to hear about the challenges you are facing or to discuss the support my office can offer. I would also be grateful for suggestions on events, networks or other opportunities that could help strengthen our visibility and understanding of the sector.”
Contacting ASCA
- For general enquiries or to make a formal complaint, email:Â asca@defra.gov.uk
- Whilst anyone in the pig sector can contact ASCA about concerns relating to the Fair Dealing Obligations, if there are issues you would like to raise confidentially without making a formal complaint, you can do so by using the ‘in-confidence’ mailbox service: ASCA-in-confidence@defra.gov.uk