Secretary Naig Calls on Department of Justice to Expedite Cattle Market Investigation

DES MOINES, Iowa (May 28, 2021) – Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland today requesting that the Department of Justice (DOJ) expedites its investigation into potential price disparities and anticompetitive practices in the live cattle market, including the disparity between live cattle prices and boxed beef prices.

“Iowa’s hardworking livestock producers have waited for more than a year while the DOJ investigates the pricing disparities in the cattle market. Meanwhile, these cattle producers have watched their profits dwindle,” said Secretary Naig. “It is imperative that the DOJ wraps up this investigation and releases its findings in a timely manner to provide much-needed transparency for Iowa cattle producers.”

Read Secretary Naig’s letter to Attorney General Garland here.

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About the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship

Led by Secretary Mike Naig, the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship serves the rural and urban residents that call Iowa home. Through its 14 diverse bureaus, the Department ensures animal health, food safety and consumer protection. It also promotes conservation efforts to preserve our land and enhance water quality for the next generation. Learn more at iowaagriculture.gov.

Media Contact:
Don McDowell
Communications Director
515-281-3375
Don.McDowell@IowaAgriculture.gov