Vilsack Calls for Agricultural Market Competition Boost

During an antitrust conference hosted by the Federal Trade Commission and Justice Department, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack highlighted the need for more efforts to promote competitive markets in the agricultural sector. He specifically mentioned plans to revitalize the Packers and Stockyards Act, a competition law dating back to 1921. USDA has already finalized two rules aimed at clarifying this law and bringing transparency to contracts between poultry farmers and companies. Vilsack indicated that additional rules would be advanced this year to further reform the system for poultry producers, aiming for better balance.

Vilsack underscored the importance of educating both the public and lawmakers about the administration's anti-monopoly efforts to prevent a repeat of past congressional resistance, which hindered reform during the Obama administration. Vilsack emphasized the need for effective messaging to garner support and avoid opposition, particularly from industries such as the meat sector, which has threatened legal action against USDA’s competition regulations. Vilsack views this as a continuation and expansion of efforts over the past three years, aiming to secure broader understanding and backing to avoid obstacles like riders in appropriations bills. Read more from Pro Farmer.