DOJ fights for fairness in livestock markets

By Scout Nelson

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is committed to protecting American livestock producers by tackling antitrust issues in the meatpacking industry. During the 2024 National Farmers Union D.C. Fly-In, DOJ Assistant Attorney General for Antitrust, Jonathan Kanter, met with farmers and ranchers to discuss ongoing efforts to address industry concentration.

“If we are not fighting to protect our family farmers, what are we doing?” Kanter asked, emphasizing that agriculture remains a top priority. He highlighted the broader impacts of industry concentration on rural communities, stating, “The destruction of the local family farm leads to the destruction of our rural communities.”

Kanter discussed actions the DOJ has taken, including suing Agri Stats in 2023 for illegal information exchanges among meat processors and collaborating with the USDA to enforce the Packers and Stockyards Act. In 2024, the DOJ also expanded its Chicago team to include more attorneys focused on agricultural issues.

“If we are not going to fight for fairness… we might as well pack up and go home,” Kanter said, reinforcing the DOJ's commitment to stronger and more effective enforcement.

South Dakota cattle producers, including Scott Kolousek, expressed optimism about the DOJ's efforts. “I am optimistic that the DOJ will get something done to protect us from antitrust issues with the packers,” Kolousek said.

Producers like Zane Reis highlighted the need for fair markets, noting that packers control prices while farmers' share of profits dwindles. “In the 70s, ranchers got about 34 percent of what beef was selling for in stores. Today, we get maybe 15 percent,” said David Reis, a fifth-generation cattle producer.

As the DOJ increases its focus on fair competition, rural communities and family farmers remain hopeful for a more balanced and transparent market. The fight for fairness continues as the DOJ expands its resources to protect American agriculture from monopolistic practices.

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