CADE releases study on medicines for human use

On 30 June, the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) released a study on medicines for human use. This edition discusses matters in the Brazilian pharmaceutical industry, one of the most relevant sectors to economy and health.

The publication focuses on the developments of the cases in the medicine manufacturing segment, both in merges and investigations of anticompetitive conducts in the sector.

In the introduction, the author presents a brief overview of the pharmaceutical market, detailing the economic importance of the sector and the main characteristics of medicine manufacturing, as well as issues involving competition and market practices.

Then, the document analyses cases adjudicated by CADE from 1994 to 2025. During this period, the agency launched several administrative proceedings related to the industry, including mergers and analysis of antitrust violations.

The study also addresses recent market trends affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, bringing more visibility to the pharmaceutical sector and highlighting the relevance of medicines to the Brazilian health system. In addition, it foresees the challenges CADE may face in future antitrust reviews, such as the advance of new technologies and changes in consumption and production models.

Cadernos do Cade 

First issued in 2014, Cadernos do Cade is a journal by the Department of Economic Studies that consolidates, systematises, and discloses CADE’s case law related to specific markets—considering economic and competitive aspects.

The initiative aims to increase the transparency of CADE’s decisions and foster the free competition culture in Brazil.

Access the study here (in Portuguese only).