CADE takes part in BRICS conference on competition law

On 10 and 11 September, the Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) participated in the BRICS International Competition Conference (BRICS ICC), held in Cape Town, South Africa.The event gathered antitrust authorities and specialists to discuss main topics related to competition defence. 

 As a representative of CADE, President Gustavo Augusto participated in the panel “Trade, Competition and the Growing Focus on Sustainability”, to debate the incorporation of environmental factors into merger control and antitrust enforcement practices.  

One of the highlights of the session was the risk of sustainability requirements becoming trade barriers, mainly impacting emerging economies. It was also discussed how the new criteria could affect regional and global competitiveness, as well as the need for multilateral dialogue to mitigate negative impacts.  

According to Mr Augusto, “The debate on sustainability shows how the antitrust agenda is constantly evolving, which requires attention to the impacts these changes may have on emerging economies.” 

Also representing the authority, Commissioner Carlos Jaques took part in the panel “Global Commodity Traders and the Impact on Competition and Local Economies”, which addressed merger risks, trade barriers, anticompetitive practices, and regulatory challenges in balancing economic development and competition defence in emerging countries. 

The conference aims to promote the exchange of experiences and strengthen cooperation among antitrust authorities in member countries. In 2027, CADE will host the 10th edition of the event in Brasilia.Watch the promotional video to learn more. 

BRICS ICC 

The 1st BRICS International Competition Conference was established in 2009 and since then it is held biennially, gathering competition authorities from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to discuss the main topics on competition and global challenges in the economic field.  

The agenda includes sessions on cartel enforcement, inter-agency cooperation, sustainability, and competition defence, promoting the exchange of experiences and the development of joint solutions to strengthen the markets of member countries.