Answering Department of Justice Questions
Monsanto has received questions from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) this year regarding competition in the seed industry. These questions come at a time when the DOJ and U.S. Department of Agriculture are studying the agricultural industry. We are answering these questions and will continue to do so.
The most recent inquiries from DOJ are similar to the claims made by DuPont in response to Monsanto’s patent infringement lawsuit. It is not at all surprising that the DOJ would want to understand how we respond to such allegations. We are confident these allegations are without merit.
From the beginning, our business approach has enabled growers to use this technology in their preferred brand of seed, including those offered by most of our largest direct competitors. Farmers choose these products because of the value they deliver on farm. Given the phenomenally broad adoption of these technologies by farmers, such questions are normal and to be expected.
Competition in the seed industry is robust. We believe the USDA/DOJ workshops will highlight this. We are confident that Monsanto’s business practices are pro-competitive and have greatly benefited farmers.
