I was extremely frustrated when the new trading system went in because it removed pretty much everything I did as a banker and a trader. Since then I've adapted, had to work more with Dukes/Duchess and adapted.
Perhaps Atamara is different but I have no issue buying and selling food outside of my Kingdom - perhaps my extreme range helps, but food availability isn't a big deal.
The only thing I really, really miss is the black market. I used to be able to stick food in a starving region without a Lord (just after a take over), which I can't do.
Anyways, just seems people are frustrated with other players hoarding food, and not the game mechanic itself.
I am in favor with auto-buy and auto-sell as it adds flexibility to the system.
Atamara is probably different, especially since it does not have seasons like Dwilight and Far East.
