Many of the laws needed to curb monopolies and discrimination against local and regional suppliers are already in place. But there are issues with enforcement and transparency. To address this, a Nordic strategy to identify and address issues in the value chain is needed. Goals and tasks should include:
Mapping the value chain and identifying market obstacles for local and regional Nordic produce
Eliminating obstacles to use of local and regional Nordic foods in private procurement:
Organising public procurement in ways that do not discriminate against local and regional suppliers
Ensuring easy access to local resources like seasonal fish by curbing the adverse effects of the organisation and sale of harvesting quotas
This work is complex and will require time and resources. But it is necessary if we are to bolster food security, defend the integrity of the food system and support the continued flourishing of the Nordic food culture. It is also doable: There are, for instance, encouraging cases from Norway regarding efforts to increase transparency in the supermarket sector.
We propose establishing a cross-Nordic working group to conduct an independent, in-depth review of the state-of-affairs in food procurement with the focus areas outlined above. The group should put forth recommendations for an improved practise to level the playing field and elevate sustainability, deliciousness and fairness.