Iowa Corn Farmers Pressure DOJ on Fertilizer Price Gouging
Iowa corn farmers gathered in Johnston on August 18 to discuss the rising costs of fertilizers, which they attributed to industry consolidation. The meeting was attended by Associate Attorney General Stanley E. Woodward Jr., who listened to the farmers' concerns and assured them that the Department of Justice (DOJ) would look into potential anti-competitive practices.
The Iowa Corn Growers Association (ICGA), with 7,500 members across the state, has been lobbying on behalf of its farmer members to create opportunities for long-term profitability. The farmers shared personal accounts of price increases, with some citing instances where prices doubled from year to year and others where they couldn't even obtain a quote.
The ICGA accused fertilizer companies of exploiting government payments intended to support farmers, instead diverting funds to boost their profits. Woodward promised to return to Iowa with the DOJ's findings and answers for the farmers.