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DOJ Opens Antitrust Probe Into Big Four Meatpackers After Trump Directive

White House pressure over high beef costs spurred the move.

Overview

  • Attorney General Pam Bondi said the Department of Justice has launched an investigation into Cargill, Tyson Foods, JBS and National Beef after the president’s order.
  • Cargill was identified in new reporting as among the companies under scrutiny, and the firm did not immediately comment.
  • The White House accused the packers of collusion, price fixing and manipulation and vowed to root out any illegal conduct to protect consumers and ranchers.
  • Industry group the Meat Institute countered that packers have been operating at a loss due to a decades‑low cattle supply and strong demand.
  • The administration also moved to quadruple low‑tariff beef imports from Argentina, drawing producer backlash, while Reuters reporting cited by MPR notes the four companies process over 80% of U.S. cattle for meat cuts.