Tractors and Farm Equipment Ltd (TAFE) has secured a status quo order from a Chennai court concerning the use of the Massey Ferguson brand in India. This legal move comes amid TAFE’s ongoing dispute with its US partner, AGCO Corporation. TAFE has also filed a contempt petition against AGCO following the latter’s announcement to terminate several agreements with TAFE, including those related to the Massey Ferguson brand.

TAFE’s Managing Director, Mallika Srinivasan, confirmed that the Chennai Commercial Court has issued an interim order favouring TAFE. This order prevents any changes to the current situation regarding the Massey Ferguson brand as of 29th April 2024. Any attempts to alter this status would violate court orders, according to TAFE.

Brand Dispute and Legal Actions

Srinivasan stated that TAFE is asserting its rightful ownership of the Massey Ferguson brand in India through a separate lawsuit. She accused AGCO’s CEO, Eric Hansotia, of trying to diminish Indian influence within AGCO by using commercial contracts to counteract Indian ownership interests. TAFE has already sought changes in AGCO’s board structure in the US.

AGCO, on its part, cited alleged breaches by TAFE as the reason for terminating various agreements. These terminations are distinct from previous at-will termination notices served by AGCO in April 2024 for certain commercial contracts.

TAFE’s Historical Role and Production

TAFE, India’s second-largest tractor manufacturer and third-largest globally, has been producing Massey Ferguson tractors since 1960. The company manufactures over 100,000 units annually and exports to more than 80 countries. In 2012, TAFE became AGCO’s largest shareholder.

TAFE claims that AGCO’s global brand website historically omitted mention of Massey Ferguson in India, Nepal, and Bhutan. This omission reflects TAFE’s longstanding control over these territories since acquiring Massey Ferguson India in 1960.

Product Portfolio and Market Focus

Since its inception, TAFE has developed a diverse range of over 500 Massey Ferguson models in India. These products are tailored for small and medium farmers and are distinct from AGCO’s offerings. TAFE emphasises that its products are designed specifically for Indian conditions.

The ongoing dispute underscores rising tensions between TAFE and AGCO. TAFE is pushing for changes in AGCO’s corporate governance and operational practices due to perceived inadequacies in shareholder engagement and performance.

As TAFE’s influence within AGCO grew, it highlighted issues such as corporate governance flaws and inadequate shareholder engagement. Instead of addressing these concerns, AGCO has taken contentious actions regarding brand usage that has been uncontested for over six decades.