Reliability deficit in inventory and price management by the Internal Trade Directorate, according to the 2023 Court of Auditors report

The Court of Auditors recently highlighted significant problems in the management of the Directorate of Internal Trade (DCI) for the period 2019-2021. In particular, the 2023 report highlights a lack of reliability in the inventory and price monitoring mechanisms, essential for effectively regulating distribution circuits in France.

The audit reveals that the monitoring of measuring instruments, the backbone of product flow control, is not applied sufficiently effectively. The training provided, although frequent, does not meet the required specialization requirements, resulting in a failure to apply the necessary metrological skills, particularly at the regional level.

The report also points to the food import declaration system, which is essential in tracking quantities of basic necessities such as sugar. The incomplete coordination between the divisions responsible for this monitoring exacerbates the risks of price deregulation on the market.

Solutions including better training based on the scientific profiles of agents and increased formalization of procedures are suggested to overcome these problems. The importance of strengthening cooperation between the different divisions is also highlighted to ensure more rigorous and transparent management of stocks and prices in the retail sector.