The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will host a virtual public listening session to gather additional information about farmers’ concerns regarding seeds and agricultural inputs, fertilizer, and retail markets on Wednesday, August 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET.

As part of its efforts to enhance fair and competitive markets, and in response to the July 9, 2021, Executive Order on “Promoting Competition in the American Economy,” USDA continues to seek input from the public about the impacts of concentration, intellectual property, and market power in seeds and other agricultural inputs on competition and market access for farmers, seed businesses, and other new and growing market competitors, especially small and medium-sized enterprises.

USDA will use the comments received to inform reports mandated under the Competition E.O., as well as subsequent policy development relating to fair and competitive markets, supply chain resiliency, pandemic response, local and regional food systems, and other areas.

Advance registration is required. If you are interested in attending, register using the following link: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_BbmxghziQIul_M1ZJH_26Q.

For individuals who prefer to provide comments through a different method, USDA will provide additional instructions on how to participate.

This listening forum provides another venue for the public to share their views, concerns, and ideas on how to enhance competition, sustain innovation, and delivery greater access to affordable seeds and other agricultural inputs. Earlier this year, USDA opened a public comment period to gather information from farmers, breeders, and businesses. 

These steps are part of a whole-of-government effort under President Biden’s historic Competition Executive Order to level the playing field for America’s farmers and ranchers, small businesses, workers, and consumers.

More information is available on the AMS Fair and Competitive Markets webpage.