Farm Action applauded President Trump’s announcement that the Department of Justice (DOJ) will launch an investigation into the nation’s largest meatpacking corporations for alleged price fixing, collusion, and market manipulation.
“For years, farmers and ranchers have sounded the alarm while the ‘Big Four’ packers—JBS, Tyson, Cargill, and National Beef—have squeezed producers and gouged consumers.
An investigation is a critical first step. But action must follow. The DOJ should hold these corporations accountable, break up their monopolistic control, and restore fair competition in America’s beef market.
Ranchers need fair prices. Consumers deserve honesty at the checkout. It’s time to fix this broken system once and for all,” said Angela Huffman, president of Farm Action.
The “Big Four” packers—JBS, Tyson Foods, Cargill, and National Beef—control roughly 85% of the U.S. beef market, allowing them to dictate prices from pasture to checkout counter. Farmers and ranchers have long reported being squeezed on both ends while packers post record profits.
Farm Action has repeatedly called for strong antitrust enforcement and oversight to restore fair markets for independent producers and consumers alike.
