WASHINGTON (July 30, 2025) – The following statement can be attributed to the American Chemistry Council (ACC) regarding the merger announcement by Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern:
“ACC and its member companies have serious concerns about the negative impacts on American manufacturing from further consolidation in the freight rail industry. We are closely watching the proposed terms of the deal and will actively oppose any merger that fails to significantly enhance competition between railroads.
“Our industry is one of the largest users of the U.S. freight rail system, and we need efficient and reliable service to deliver products that make people's lives better, healthier, and safer.
“The four largest freight railroads already control more than 90% of U.S. rail traffic, with two dominating in the eastern U.S. and two dominating in the west. The impact of a transcontinental merger between two of these railroads threatens to leave American manufacturers, farmers and energy producers with even fewer competitive options to ship by rail.
“Many rail customers are currently dealing with high rates and unreliable service. Further consolidation within the rail industry is likely to make these problems worse as was the case with prior mergers.
“Producing and moving more chemistry here at home is key to growing the economy. From microchips to cars to medicines, if we want to increasing manufacturing in America and lead in global trade, we must do a better job transporting American made goods. We call on policymakers to help create more competitive and reliable transportation options, not less.”
