Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig wrote a letter to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland asking the Department of Justice (DOJ) to hasten its investigation into potential price disparities and exploitative practices in the live cattle market, particularly 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,? said Secretary Naig. ?Meanwhile, these cattle producers have watched their profits dwindle. 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.?
In his letter, Secretary Naig brings special attention to Iowa?s status as a national leader in livestock production and processing. He states that an expedited investigation will help create a more transparent and competitive market.
?A conclusion of this investigation presents an opportunity for the Department to provide increased market transparency while fostering a continued healthy relationship between cattle producers and processors,? Secretary Naig said.
Iowa cattle producers have been facing disruptions within the marketplace and the supply chain and dealt with increased food costs, among other issues. A prompt conclusion to the investigation and a report of its findings will help to “protect and promote the long-term viability of independent cattle producers.”
