Trump orders creation of task forces to probe anti-competitive conduct in U.S. food sector
New federal task forces will investigate alleged price fixing and foreign influence in America’s food industry.
USA – U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order establishing new task forces to investigate potential security risks linked to alleged price fixing and anti-competitive practices in the nation’s food sector.
The units will operate within the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), with mandates to assess market conduct and ownership structures across critical food-related industries.
The announcement follows last month’s directive from President Trump instructing the DoJ to open an inquiry into alleged price fixing by major meatpacking companies.
At the time, four firms: JBS, Cargill, Tyson Foods, and National Beef, were identified as subjects of the investigation. According to the White House, these companies collectively control about 85% of U.S. beef processing, a significant increase from 36% in 1980.
The order states that anti-competitive activities, particularly those involving foreign-controlled corporations, pose risks to the stability and affordability of the U.S. food supply.
It directs the newly formed working groups to determine whether foreign ownership or control in food-related sectors is contributing to increased food prices or creating national or economic security concerns.
According to the directive, the Attorney General and the FTC Chair are required to take necessary measures to address any anti-competitive behavior uncovered during their investigations. This may include enforcement actions, regulatory recommendations, or the pursuit of criminal charges where evidence of collusion exists.
The order further mandates that the task forces provide a joint briefing to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and relevant congressional committee chairs.
This summary of findings and progress must be submitted within 180 days of the order’s issuance.
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