The Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) has welcomed the European Commission’s proposed strategy on stockpiling essential goods, describing it as a step toward strengthening resilience in future crises. The initiative affirms the role of the European Food Supply Chain Mechanism (EFSCM) as the main coordinator between EU institutions, Member States, and industry, with a focus on improving public-private cooperation and real-time food supply monitoring.
GCCA Europe Director Julie Hanson noted the importance of including food in the strategy and recognising logistics as key to food security during disruptions. However, she also stressed that several core aspects of the plan remain unclear and require urgent clarification.
“There are still major gaps in detail that urgently need addressing,” said Hanson. “We need clear answers on fundamental questions—such as what qualifies as ‘essential goods’ in the food sector, how minimum stock levels will be set and enforced, and what expectations will be placed on private cold chain logistics operators across the EU.”
According to GCCA, five key areas must be addressed to make the strategy workable for the cold chain industry: clear definitions of essential food goods; transparency around required data sharing and protection; support and incentives for cold chain infrastructure investment; detailed plans for cross-border logistics during disruptions; and clarification of the roles and compliance expectations for private operators.
The Alliance also called for policy action to reduce barriers to investment, including ensuring access to affordable energy and easing permitting processes for cold chain infrastructure.
“The cold chain sector stands ready to partner with EU institutions and national authorities, but cooperation must be based on clarity, practicality, and shared risk,” said Hanson. “We urge the Commission to work closely with our industry to turn this strategy into a workable plan that strengthens preparedness without compromising supply chain efficiency.”