http://www.beefusa.org/newsncba_policynews.aspx

Contact:            Heather Vaughan, 202-347-0228 or hvaughan@beef.org

Meghan Pusey, 303-850-3340 or mpusey@beef.org

NATIONAL CATTLEMEN’S BEEF ASSOCIATION STATEMENT

 ON THE ANTITRUST LAWSUIT AGAINST JBS AQUISITION OF NATIONAL BEEF

Andy Groseta, NCBA President

October 20, 2008

“The members that comprise the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) appreciate the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) attention to the balance of competition within the beef industry. 

“DOJ filed a civil antitrust lawsuit today in the U.S. District Court in Chicago to prevent JBS S.A. from acquiring National Beef Packing Company, LLC.  JBS has already acquired Swift Foods Company and is currently in the process of acquiring the Smithfield Beef Group, Inc. and Five Rivers Ranch Cattle Feeding, LLC.  These acquisitions have not been challenged by DOJ, and have significantly increased the size and capacity of JBS.

“As JBS has increased its ownership in the packing and cattle feeding industries, NCBA has supported DOJ’s efforts to monitor, evaluate, and—if necessary—act upon these acquisitions.  We encourage the process of due diligence and will be closely monitoring this case and the impacts on the beef industry.  In particular, we will be making certain that the prices cattle producers receive for their animals do not decrease unfairly. 

“NCBA supports free and fair competition in open markets, and believes this is the best way for cattle producers to remain profitable while providing consumers with high-quality beef.”

Andy Groseta is a rancher from Cottonwood, Arizona, and president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

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The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) has represented America's cattle producers since 1898, preserving the heritage and strength of the industry through education and public policy.  As the largest association of cattle producers, NCBA works to create new markets and increase demand for beef.  Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 1-866-BEEF-USA or membership@beef.org.