Iowa-based Latham Quality Seed filed a federal antitrust lawsuit against Bayer for allegedly monopolizing the genetically modified (GMO) corn seed market. The complaint focuses on the NK603 trait, which makes crops resistant to Roundup herbicide.
Latham accuses Bayer of using anti-competitive practices to prevent generic alternatives after a key patent expired in 2022. The lawsuit seeks class-action status and alleges Bayer used restrictive licensing, loyalty programs, and retaliatory tactics to maintain dominance.
These practices reportedly inflated costs for farmers and independent seed companies. Bayer, which is already fighting extensive litigation over its Roundup weedkiller, stated the new claims lack merit.