California’s Attorney General unsealed documents detailing an alleged price-fixing scheme by Amazon. The state claims Amazon coerced brands like Levi Strauss & Co. to pressure rivals into raising prices.
The scheme targeted competitors including Walmart, Home Depot, and Chewy to prevent them from undercutting Amazon. Evidence from the 2022 lawsuit describes Levi’s persuading Walmart to increase the cost of khaki pants.
Amazon also allegedly pushed for higher prices on items like fertilizer and pet treats on rival websites. These actions reportedly eliminated price competition and increased consumer costs. A trial is scheduled for January 2027.