The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) have initiated a joint public inquiry to investigate issues affecting the agricultural equipment manufacturing and distribution markets. This inquiry aims to address potential anticompetitive conduct that may hinder farmers' access to necessary equipment and services.

This initiative is part of the FTC's ongoing efforts to maintain competition within the agricultural sector. Recent actions include a settlement with Corteva Inc. regarding alleged anticompetitive behavior in the pesticides market, as well as a settlement with Deere & Company that challenges repair restrictions on farm equipment. The latter settlement ensures that farmers retain the right to repair their own John Deere tractors and equipment.

The joint request for information (RFI) is a response to increasing complaints from farmers about barriers to acquiring agricultural equipment. The FTC and USDA are encouraging public participation, particularly from farmers, independent repair providers, and employees of agricultural equipment manufacturers, to share their experiences and concerns.

Comments can be submitted through Regulations.gov until December 7, 2026, and will inform the FTC and USDA's enforcement and regulatory priorities moving forward. The goal is to ensure a fair marketplace for agricultural equipment, ultimately supporting farmers and food production in the U.S.