One of the main questions for which this , otherwise simple way of buying, is always under the scanner of purchasing ethics is its undue ability to restrict competition and fair play. One of the major role that any purchaser plays for his firm is in cost reduction arena which is attempted by generating competition among the suppliers. This principle gets a jolt through reciprocity in buying. However, when factors such as quality, after sales service, price etc are equal normally a buyer would like to buy from his customer , if for nothing  then at least for having a good working relationship. However, the distinct disadvantages of reciprocal buying outweigh the limited and narrow advantage that a firm may derive out of it.

Some of the main disadvantages of reciprocity are  not being able to follow the well laid criteria of quality, price and service.