Relazioni contrattuali nella filiera agroalimentare e nuovi modelli di produzione e consumo

The main purpose of this doctoral thesis is to undertake a critical analysis of the Italian and European regulatory framework on contracts in the agri-food supply chain, with a particular focus on issues related to transparency, contractual justice and economic sustainability for the most vulnerable actors, such as small agricultural producers. The study employs an interdisciplinary approach, integrating civil law, agri-food law, corporate law, and economic elements, to identify the gaps in the regulatory framework and the reasons of the persistent imbalance in the distribution of bargaining power between producers, intermediaries, and distributors. The analysis demonstrates that the current regulatory framework, despite the introduction of instruments such as the Directive (EU) 2019/633 on unfair trading practices in business-to-business relationships and its implementation in Italy, are inadequate to foster genuine contractual equilibrium and guarantee a fair distribution of value throughout the supply chain. This thesis proposes the implementation of short supply chain models, in particular Community Supported Agriculture, which are characterised by a reduction of intermediaries and a direct relationship between producer and consumer. The aim of the implementation is to enhance market conditions, reinforce economic and environmental sustainability, and cultivate greater resilience within the agri-food market. Through case studies of best practices adopted in some Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) in Italy and the United Kingdom, the thesis demonstrates how the adoption of short supply chain models can contribute to the development of a fairer, transparent and sustainable agri-food system. Moreover, the research offers specific guidance for policymakers and industry stakeholders, emphasising the importance of multi-level collaboration and the active participation of local communities in the development of new forms of supply chain governance.