In a move aimed at strengthening America’s agricultural sector, the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have announced a formal partnership to keep competition thriving in key farm markets.
Their collaboration focuses on critical areas like feed, fertilizer, fuel, seed, equipment, and other essential goods that farmers and ranchers rely on every day.
Ensuring Fair Play in Agricultural Markets
The new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed on September 26, builds on years of coordination between the two agencies.
Its purpose is simple: make sure farmers have access to competitive prices for the supplies they need to grow crops and raise livestock.
By keeping the market fair and competitive, the agencies hope to lower costs for farmers, which can also translate into more affordable prices for consumers.
A Commitment to Farmers and Ranchers
“Antitrust enforcement ensures free market competition for agricultural inputs, lowering costs for farmers and prices for consumers,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division.
“America’s farmers deserve nothing less than the best the Antitrust Division and USDA can do to promote competitive markets that free them to feed America.”
Creating Open Channels for Communication
The MOU also sets up formal channels for ongoing consultation and communication between the agencies.
It commits both sides to designate personnel who will facilitate dialogue among attorneys, economists, and technical experts.
This structured approach ensures that the agencies can quickly coordinate efforts to detect anti-competitive behavior and take action to protect farmers and ranchers.
Looking Ahead
By signing this agreement, both the Justice Department and the USDA are signaling that protecting competition in agricultural markets is a top priority.
Their goal is clear: give farmers and ranchers the tools they need to thrive in a competitive, fair, and efficient marketplace, ultimately benefiting everyone who depends on American agriculture.