- The FTC and USDA launched a joint public inquiry into agricultural equipment manufacturing and distribution, including potential anticompetitive practices and barriers to equipment access and repair services. The joint RFI follows an increase in complaints to USDA from farmers reporting difficulties obtaining agricultural equipment and accessing the services needed to maintain and repair it.
- The FTC and USDA are seeking input from members of the public, including farmers, independent repair providers, and current and former employees of agricultural equipment manufacturers and dealers. Relevant issues or concerns open for public comment include any relevant business models, policies, agreements, or contractual terms; any firsthand experiences or documented cases of restrictions, penalties, or retaliation; and broader competitive implications – how these practices may impact pricing, market entry, innovation, farmer welfare, or rural economic resilience.
- The agencies will use public feedback to assess market conditions and inform efforts to promote competition and fairness in the agricultural equipment sector.