MPs push for cheaper groceries with QR codes on labels, adjusted EU rules

Dutch lawmakers are grappling with how to tackle the issue of higher supermarket prices in the Netherlands compared to neighboring countries. While there is a broad consensus that something needs to be done to address the problem, there is no agreement on how best to solve it.

The PVDAGroenLinks party has introduced a proposal that could offer a quick fix: removing the requirement for product labels to be in Dutch. This would allow for the use of labels in English, German, or French, in line with European regulations that offer more flexibility on product information language.

The debate centers on how to prevent price discrepancies between the Netherlands and nearby countries. Lawmakers disagree on how to implement a solution.

The VVD party, along with Minister of Economic Affairs Dirk Beljaarts, supports the idea of allowing labels in English with a QR code that would link consumers to websites where product information is available in their preferred language. This idea has the backing of some in the sector, who argue that it could streamline labeling and help lower costs.

However, other parties have raised concerns with this proposal. NSC leader Pieter Omtzigt suggested negotiating with other countries to address pricing differences. Meanwhile, the SP party is calling for greater transparency from supermarkets on how prices are set, as well as increased powers for the Dutch Consumer and Market Authority (ACM) to regulate excessive pricing.

Jesse Klaver, a member of the PVDAGroenLinks party, believes that a change in Dutch law could offer the most effective solution. His proposal would amend the Warenwet, or Dutch Food and Commodities Act, which currently requires that labels be in Dutch. Klaver argues that this requirement is stricter than necessary, as European Union regulations allow for labels to be in a language that is easy to understand.

Klaver’s proposed amendment would allow for labels in languages such as English, German, or French. He believes that even those who are not fluent in foreign languages would be able to understand such labels, as these are commonly spoken in the Netherlands. He also suggests that supermarkets should make Dutch-language information available on their websites.

Klaver is optimistic that his proposal will gain support from a majority of lawmakers. “This is a relatively simple change,” he said. “I encourage the government to adopt this amendment. If not, I hope we can push it through this year.”