Trump Urges Probe of Meatpacking Industry as Beef Prices Stay Elevated

Washington — With retail beef prices hovering near record highs, former President Donald Trump has publicly called for a thorough investigation into the nation’s major meat‑packing firms. Trump’s remarks come as the U.S. Justice Department has already launched a probe into whether the industry’s largest processors have engaged in anti‑competitive practices that could be inflating costs for consumers and squeezing ranchers.The Justice Department’s inquiry, announced last week, will examine potential collusion among the “Big Four” meatpackers—Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill and National Beef. Investigators are looking at a range of issues, from price‑fixing agreements and market‑allocation schemes to the use of exclusive contracts that might limit cattle producers’ ability to negotiate better terms. While the probe is still in its early stages, officials say it will involve a review of trading data, communications between executives, and testimonies from both producers and retailers.Ranchers, who have been vocal about rising feed costs and dwindling margins, welcomed the federal scrutiny. “For years we’ve been squeezed by a handful of processors who dictate the price we get for our cattle,” said Texas cattleman Luis Ramirez. “A serious investigation could finally level the playing field.” Agricultural groups have also expressed cautious optimism, noting that a transparent examination could restore confidence in the supply chain.Industry representatives, however, argue that the high beef prices are largely driven by broader economic forces, including increased demand, supply chain disruptions, and higher feed grain prices. “While we support fair competition, it’s important to recognize that market dynamics—not collusion—are the primary drivers of today’s price environment,” said a spokesperson for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.Consumer advocates see the investigation as a potential win for shoppers who have been paying more at grocery stores and restaurants. “If the DOJ uncovers evidence that a few firms are manipulating prices, it could lead to significant relief for families across the country,” said Maria Delgado of the consumer watchdog group Food Justice Alliance.Trump’s call for an inquiry has added a political dimension to the unfolding story. Speaking at a rally in Iowa, the former president urged the administration to “get to the bottom of this” and promised to press the Justice Department for a swift and decisive outcome. Critics note that Trump’s stance aligns with his broader strategy of positioning himself as a champion of rural America ahead of upcoming elections.The scope and potential repercussions of the DOJ’s investigation remain uncertain. If antitrust violations are confirmed, the agency could pursue civil penalties, enforce divestitures, or even bring criminal charges against corporate executives. Such actions could reshape the structure of the meat‑packing sector, potentially opening the market to more competition and offering ranchers greater leverage.As the probe proceeds, stakeholders on all sides will be watching closely. For now, beef prices show little sign of easing, and the question of whether the investigation will translate into tangible relief for ranchers, consumers, and the broader food system hangs in the balance.