Complaints to the Agrar-Ombudsstelle: How Farmers Fight for Their Rights in 2024 In 2024, Austria saw a notable rise in complaints filed with the Agrar-Ombudsstelle, highlighting the growing challenges farmers face in their struggle against major retail chains. Around 240 complaints were registered this year. Topics: News, Business.

Complaints to the Agrar-Ombudsstelle: How Farmers Fight for Their Rights in 2024

In 2024, Austria saw a notable rise in complaints filed with the Agrar-Ombudsstelle, highlighting the growing challenges farmers face in their struggle against major retail chains. Around 240 complaints were registered this year. Agriculture Minister Norbert Totschnig notes that the conflict between farmers and supermarkets has become particularly acute, and the level of inequality in this struggle is a serious concern.

Main Reasons for the Increase

Farmers faced numerous difficulties in 2024. The rising number of complaints confirms that they need support. Key problems include:

Unilateral contract changes.

Large supermarkets alter contract terms without warning, leading to financial losses for farmers.

Payment delays.

Farmers often experience delays in receiving payment for delivered products, putting heavy pressure on their businesses.

Price reductions.

Competition from supermarkets drives down product prices, making it difficult to run a farm.

Statistics

According to OE24, the Agrar-Ombudsstelle received 240 complaints in 2024 — a small but noticeable increase over previous years. This trend is expected to continue, underscoring the need for more active measures from the government and trade organizations to protect farmers’ rights.

Solutions for Farmers

The “Fairness Office”

Minister Totschnig announced the creation of a “Fairness Office” designed to protect farmers’ rights and ensure fair trade. Its specialists help farmers with:

• Resolving conflicts with retail chains
• Legal advice on business matters
• Training farmers to defend their rights

Farmers can now seek help through this office, providing clear support that could improve the situation in the agricultural sector.

Funding Programs

Under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (ELER) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), financial resources are available for various projects supporting sustainable agricultural development. This can help improve competitiveness and reduce the carbon footprint.

Political Actions and Changes

Constitutional Complaint in Burgenland

The Burgenland government decided to file a constitutional complaint to ban the use of solid floors in livestock keeping. Governor Hans Peter Doskozil stated this is a step toward improving animal welfare and supporting local farmers.

Public Opinion and Election Expectations

The situation in the agricultural sector is directly tied to upcoming elections, and the government is actively working on new initiatives to improve farmers’ conditions. Society reacts strongly to problems in agriculture, which may influence political decisions.

Conclusion

In 2024, the Agrar-Ombudsstelle became an important platform for farmers defending their rights. The rise in complaints points to serious problems in the agricultural sector that require immediate solutions. Government support and new tools such as the “Fairness Office” open up new opportunities for farmers.