The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has published a Statement of Issues outlining its preliminary competition concerns regarding Elders Limited's proposed acquisition of Delta Agribusiness. Both companies are significant suppliers of rural merchandise, including agricultural chemicals, seed, fertiliser, and animal health products, through their retail networks.

ACCC Deputy Chair Mick Keogh emphasized the importance of competition in the supply of rural merchandise for Australian farmers and the country's agricultural competitiveness. The ACCC's concerns center around the possibility that the acquisition could lead to higher prices or reduced quality in the market, particularly if Delta were to cease competing independently with Elders.

The ACCC is investigating the potential impact of the acquisition on competition in various local markets, including North-West Victoria, Northern Wheatbelt (WA), Central Wheatbelt (WA), Great Southern (WA), and Murray-Mallee (SA). The authority is also examining the competitive dynamics between Elders and Delta's retail stores and the role of larger retail chains and smaller retailers in the market.

Additionally, the ACCC is considering whether the acquisition would affect competition at the wholesale level in Western Australia and whether alternative suppliers could effectively compete with Elders post-acquisition. The ACCC has not yet reached a final conclusion on these issues and is inviting submissions from interested parties until June 12, 2025.