CADE’s visit to Embassy of Brazil in US reinforces international prominence

The President of the Administrative Council for Economic Defence (CADE), Gustavo Augusto, and Commissioner Carlos Jacques visited the Embassy of Brazil in Washington, DC, where they were welcomed by the Ambassador of Brazil to the US, Ms Maria Luiza Viotti.

The meeting aimed to present the main initiatives currently in progress at the agency and exchange outlooks on regulation of digital markets in the international geopolitical context.

CADE’s representatives highlighted Brazil’s growing role in the global debate on the competition law enforcement in digital markets.

In an economic environment increasingly shaped by the performance of major technology platforms, the Brazilian agency has contributed to the development of regulatory solutions that ensure free competition, innovation, and balance between market players.

The committee also recognised the consistency of its work, the consolidated institutional framework, as well as the decision quality.

Relevance

In addition, the importance of CADE’s role in ensuring well-functioning markets, especially in periods of global instability, was also addressed.

In times of crisis or rising geopolitical tensions, the Brazilian antitrust authority’s actions are essential to prevent distortions, fight anticompetitive practices, and preserve a fair economic environment.

Digital Markets

In the digital economy field, CADE has stood out through works such as the WhatsApp app investigation, which highlighted some of the contemporary competition policy challenges.

Recently, the Tribunal dismissed the appeal filed by WhatsApp and Facebook Brasil, upholding the preventive measure imposed by the Office of the Superintendent General (SG). New WhatsApp Business terms of use that would prohibit AI providers and developers from accessing or using the app's ecosystem to offer services shall not enter into force.

According to President Gustavo Augusto, advances in artificial intelligence as well as in the digital economy have required the antitrust authorities’ tools updates. “CADE’s

work remains focused on protecting consumer welfare, while promoting a fair and balanced competitive environment in the digital world,” he stated.

In this context, abusing dominant position in digital markets through artificial intelligence tools is the target of several international investigations, and is under close review by Brazilian and international competition authorities.