Farm Direct Sales Registration

Farmers selling their own produce directly to consumers in Germany (Direktvermarktung) may need a trade registration depending on the degree of processing involved. Selling unprocessed products like fresh fruit, vegetables, or eggs from the farm counts as primary production (Urproduktion) and is exempt from trade registration. However, if you process products further (e.g. making jam, cheese, or sausage), operate a farm shop with purchased goods exceeding about 10% of turnover, or sell at markets away from your farm, a trade registration (Gewerbeanmeldung) is required.

All direct marketers who package their products must register with the Central Packaging Register (LUCID). If you sell food products, you also need food business registration with the local veterinary or food safety authority. Additional rules on labelling, hygiene, and pricing apply under the Food Information Regulation and the Price Indication Ordinance.