US investigates meatpackers over possible cartel amid high meat prices

The US government launched an investigation into elevated beef, pork and poultry prices, focusing on the sector’s level of concentration. White House economic adviser Peter Navarro said that major companies could be influencing price formation amid suspicions of cartel practices.

According to the official, companies such as Cargill, JBS, Tyson Foods and National Beef control a large share of the supply chain, reducing competition and affecting both producers and consumers. The Department of Justice had already been advancing an investigation since late 2025.

In the market, the news impacted company shares, with declines in stocks linked to meatpackers operating in the United States.

At the same time, the White House indicated that the conflict in the Middle East could generate short-term volatility, although it expects energy prices to stabilize over the longer term.