WASHINGTON, June 25, 2024 – In a move to support the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to achieving a fairer, more competitive, and resilient meat and poultry supply chain, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced new actions. The USDA’s Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets proposed rule aims to address long-standing challenges in the livestock, meat, and poultry sectors related to unfairness and competitive injury.
This proposed rule comes at a critical time when the meat and poultry industries have faced significant disruptions due to the ongoing pandemic. These industries play a crucial role in providing a steady supply of high-quality protein to the American people, and it is essential that they operate in a fair and competitive environment.
The proposed rule would bring much-needed clarity to the interpretation of unfairness and competitive injury in the livestock, meat, and poultry markets. It will provide a level playing field for producers and growers, allowing them to compete fairly in the marketplace.
The Biden-Harris Administration has made it a priority to support American farmers, ranchers, and producers by addressing unfair and anti-competitive practices in the agricultural sector. This proposed rule is a significant step towards achieving that goal. It will promote fair competition in the market, giving producers and growers the opportunity to earn a fair price for their products.
USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack said, “We are committed to ensuring a fair and competitive market for our farmers and ranchers. This proposed rule will help us achieve that goal by providing clarity and consistency in the interpretation of unfairness and competitive injury. It will also promote transparency, which is essential for fair competition.”
The proposed rule has been welcomed by various agricultural organizations. The National Farmers Union, which represents over 200,000 family farmers, ranchers, and fishers, stated, “We are pleased to see the USDA taking action to address the long-standing issue of unfairness in the livestock and poultry markets. This proposed rule will benefit family farmers and ranchers across the country and help level the playing field for them in the marketplace.”
The proposed rule would also establish criteria for determining when a company or entity has engaged in unfair practices, such as manipulating prices or engaging in deceptive practices. It will provide a clear framework for addressing unfair practices, ensuring that producers and growers are not taken advantage of in the market.
Moreover, the proposed rule will also create a new position of a Rural Advocate within the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service. The Rural Advocate will be responsible for working with producers, processors, and other stakeholders to identify and address anti-competitive practices in the agricultural sector.
The USDA is seeking public comments on the proposed rule, which can be submitted until August 25, 2024. The agency will carefully consider all feedback before finalizing the rule. This is an opportunity for stakeholders to share their thoughts and concerns and help shape a fairer and more competitive market for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries.
The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to supporting American agriculture and ensuring a level playing field for all producers and growers. The proposed rule is a significant step towards achieving that goal. It will promote fair competition, transparency, and accountability in the market, benefiting both producers and consumers.
In conclusion, the USDA’s Fair and Competitive Livestock and Poultry Markets proposed rule is a welcomed development for the American agricultural sector. It will provide much-needed clarity and consistency in the interpretation of unfairness and competitive injury, promoting fair competition and transparency in the market. With the support of stakeholders and the public, this proposed rule has the potential to create a more resilient and competitive meat and poultry supply chain for the benefit of all.
