Federal prosecutors are moving to scrutinize high input costs as farmers face slimmer margins. USDA forecast data shows expenses climbing to $467.4 billion while crop receipts weaken for staples such as corn and soybeans.
When faced with generic competition, Syngenta tried to prevent cheaper options from reaching farmers, court records show. The company said it was protecting its investments and helping consumers. The government said it was stiffing farmers for millions.