Investigation by the US Department of Justice cites abusive commercial practices by meatpackers in Brazil
The US government announced this week that it will pay a reward to anyone who provides information about two Brazilian companies being investigated for abusive commercial practices. and National Beef, a subsidiary controlled by are the target of an investigation by the North American Department of Justice that is investigating a possible artificial increase in beef prices in the country.
The North Americans e have also been investigated since November 2025. Together, the companies account for around 85% of the beef processing market in the US, according to data from the Department of Justice and the Department of Agriculture.
The reward offered by the Trump administration could vary from 15% a 30% of the value of fines that may be applied to companies, if the punishments exceed US$ 1 million. Payment will be made in exchange for information about possible competition crimes or fraud.
On Monday (May 7, 2026), the US Secretary of Agriculture, said that large foreign meat processors “harm independent livestock farmers and consumers” North Americans.
“A Brazilian-owned company holds about a quarter of the market and has a documented history of international corruption and illicit activity”said the secretary, who also cited allegations of cartel formation and slave labor.
The offensive in the sector began at the request of the North American, in November 2025. At the time, Trump complained about the price of beef, accused companies of “unlawful collusion” and ordered the opening of an investigation.
The Department of Justice said it has already analyzed more than 3 million documents and collected statements from hundreds of ranchers and producers.
Beef was one of the items taxed at 50% in the tariff by Trump against the Brazilian government in August 2025. Brazil is the main supplier of the product to the North American market. The republican tariffs on Brazilian meat in November, but maintained the tax rate at 40%.
Brazilian slaughterhouses exported US$795 million in beef to the US in the first 3 months of this year, an increase of 21% compared to the same period in 2025. Last year set a record for Brazilian beef exports to the US. Sales reached US$1.75 billion, an increase of 39% compared to 2024.
O Poder360 He approached JBS and Marfrig to ask if they would like to speak out. There was no response until the publication of this report. If a response is sent to this digital newspaper, the text will be updated.
