WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), joined by the Attorneys General of Illinois and Minnesota, has filed a lawsuit against agricultural equipment manufacturer Deere & Company, alleging the company’s repair practices unfairly burden farmers and restrict competition in the repair market.
According to the complaint, Deere has employed unlawful tactics for decades to limit farmers’ ability to repair their own equipment. The FTC alleges the company forces reliance on Deere’s authorized repair network by restricting access to necessary tools and software, thereby driving up repair costs and creating delays that can jeopardize farmers’ livelihoods.
“Illegal repair restrictions can be devastating for farmers, who rely on affordable and timely repairs to harvest their crops and earn their income,” said FTC Chair Lina M. Khan.
Deere, known for its dominance in the agricultural equipment market, produces the only fully functional software capable of comprehensive repairs on its machinery. This critical tool is available exclusively to authorized dealers, the FTC claims, leaving farmers unable to seek services from independent repair providers. This practice, the complaint contends, allows Deere to maintain monopoly power in the repair market while boosting its profits from parts and services.
The lawsuit highlights the broader implications for the agricultural sector. Farmers depend on accessible and affordable repairs to keep equipment running during crucial periods like planting and harvesting. Delays or excessive costs can have severe economic consequences, especially for small-scale operations.
The legal action exemplifies the FTC’s efforts to address anti-competitive practices and ensure that farmers have the freedom to choose independent repair options, potentially reshaping the landscape of agricultural equipment servicing.
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