Home to a ‘responsive and composed team’, Linklaters‘ competition practice provides end-to-end expertise in antitrust law, spanning transactional, regulatory, and contentious matters. The firm is a go-to choice for major global clients, particularly in navigating complex Phase II merger reviews and addressing complex cartel investigations and dominance issues in Portugal. The practice is led by the ‘brilliant’ João Pateira Ferreira, who frequently assists clients on high-profile cartels, merger control and state aid matters. Carlos Pinto Correia stands out for his expertise in state aid and regulatory matters, with a particular focus in the finance and energy sectors.
EU and competition in Portugal
Linklaters
Praxisleiter:
João Pateira Ferreira
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Carlos Pinto Correia; Cristiana Vieira Bento, Inês Gamito
Referenzen
‘Experts in local regulatory environment. Responsive and composed team that manages to absorb tricky opposing counsel discussions and filter points for in-house counsel.’
‘João Pateira Ferreira – practical and knowledgeable adviser on Portuguese competition law.’
‘Inês Gamito – proactive and highly organised antitrust associate.’
Kernmandanten
SIBS
Perfetti Van Melle Group
Banco BPI, S.A.
Beiersdorf Portuguesa, Lda.
Luz Saúde, S.A. (Fosun Group)
ANL – National Association of Clinical Laboratories
Grupo 8 – Vigilância e Prevenção
Amadeus
Gigas
Qatar Sports Investments
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising SIBS on competition and regulatory issues in the sector.
- Advised Perfetti Van Melle in the filing process before the Portuguese Competition Authority and phase-1 clearance with remedies of the acquisition of exclusive control over the assets corresponding to the “Trident”, “Chiclets” and “Bubbaloo” brands in Portugal.
- Advising on ongoing investigations by the Portuguese Competition Authority into alleged restrictive practices spanning different industry sectors.
Morais Leitão, Galvão Teles, Soares da Silva & Associados
Well regarded for its ‘in-depth knowledge’ and ‘pragmatic approach’, Morais Leitão, Galvão Teles, Soares da Silva & Associados‘ competition group counts multinational corporations, domestic players, financial institutions and public entities among its key roster of clients. The team navigates a broad spectrum of high-profile competition and antitrust matters, including merger control, state aid, and investigations across various industries. The team is jointly led by Joaquim Vieira Peres and Luís do Nascimento Ferreira. Peres is noted for his experience in proceedings before the European courts and the Portuguese courts, while Ferreira, who earns praise for his ‘technical knowledge’, continues to advise clients on the full spectrum of antitrust matters. Elsewhere in the team, Pedro de Gouveia e Melo stands out for his expertise in the energy, financial services and food sectors, and Philipp Melcher is lauded for his ability to ‘foster co-creativity in the development of solutions’. Inês Gouveia is a trusted adviser for Portuguese and international clients navigating competition authorities at both national and EU levels.
Praxisleiter:
Joaquim Vieira Peres; Luís Nascimento Ferreira
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Carlos Botelho Moniz, Eduardo Maia Cadete, Pedro Gouveia e Melo, Philipp Melcher, Inês Gouveia, Dzhamil Oda, Gonçalo Rosas, Inês Ferrari Careto
Referenzen
‘High level of specific knowledge. Pragmatic approach. Availability and customer service.’
‘Luis Nascimento Ferreira – technical knowledge, availability and customer service.’
‘In-depth knowledge of the functioning of the sector and its legal framework, both at the domestic and European level. The team has innovative solutions particularly in terms of applied AI.’
Kernmandanten
MC Retail (Modelo Continente Hipermercados)
EDP Group (EDP SA, EDP Renewables, EDP Comercial, EDP Produção, E-Redes, EDP Inovação, SU Eletricidade)
NOS Comunicações
Super Bock Bebidas
Millennium BCP
Caixa Económica Montepio Geral
Traton SE (formerly MAN SE), MAN Truck & Bus AG, MAN Truck & Bus Deutschland GmbH and MAN Truck & Bus Portugal, Unipessoal, Lda
Fidelidade
Assicurazioni Generali S.P.A.
Fusion Fuel
National Environmental Fund (Fundo Ambiental)
National Development and Cohesion Agency (Agência de Desenvolvimento & Coesão)
Managing Authority of the National Operational Programme for Sustainability and Efficient Use of Resources (PO SEUR)
Autoridade de Gestão do Programa Operacional Ação Climática e Sustentabilidade 2030 (Managing Authority of the Operational Program Climate Action and Sustainability 2030)
Sovena Consumer Goods
Unicre – Instituição Financeira de Crédito SA
Managing Authority of the Alentejo 2020 Operational Program
Autoridade de Gestão do Programa Operacional Regional Centro 2030 (Managing Authority of the Operational Regional Program Centro 2030)
Autoridade de Gestão do Programa Operacional Regional Norte 2030 (Managing Authority of the Operational Regional Program Norte 2030)
Media Livre
National Environmental Fund (Fundo Ambiental)
ALF – Associação Portuguesa de Leasing, Factoring e Renting
Allianz
TIIC Infrastructure
Greenvolt Energy
CorPower
VASP – Distribuidora de Publicações
CEiiA – Centre of Engineering and Product Development
Fullsix
Apple
Portos dos Açores, S.A.
Metro-Mondego, S.A.
Abbvie
Advanced Accelerator Applications, a Novartis company
Abanca
Sonae Sierra
OW Offshore S.L.
Volkswagen Financial Services AG and Volkswagen Financial Services Portugal (Volkswagen Bank GmbH – Sucursal em Portugal, Volkswagen Renting, Unipessoal, Lda)
MAN Energy Solutions
CTT – Correios de Portugal
Mota-Engil Capital
Sonae SGPS
Universo IME
Draycott
Highlight-Mandate
PLMJ
Hailed as ‘one of the best – if not the best’ competition practice in Portugal, PLMJ offers extensive expertise across antitrust matters, from merger control and State Aid to investigations, serving clients across a range of sectors. Engaged by top Portuguese and international companies, the team excels in navigating both contentious and non-contentious matters, earning further praise for its ‘approachable, hardworking, and flexible’ approach. Practice head Ricardo Oliveira specialises in defending domestic and multinational clients in cartel cases, abuse of dominance, competition litigation, merger control, and antitrust compliance. Rita Aleixo Gregório is frequently engaged by clients hailing from the aviation, banking, energy, health and waste management sectors, while Martim Valente is noted for his international work, with clients praising him as ‘head-and-shoulders above anyone else.’ Alexandra Dias Henriques advises on the full gamut of antitrust matters, with a particular focus on restrictive practices cases.
Praxisleiter:
Ricardo Oliveira
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Rita Aleixo Gregório, Martim Valente, Alexandra Dias Henriques, João Prata Rodrigues
Referenzen
‘The team is approachable, hardworking and flexible – always a pleasure to deal with. I am co-counsel effectively on certain matters and they have an excellent team ethic.’
‘PLMJ’s competition team is one of the best – if not the best – nationally. They cover practically all competition topics and has acquired significant experience in private enforcement, a rapidly growing area in Portugal and the rest of Europe.’
‘I have worked mainly with Ricardo Oliveira, Alexandra Dias Henriques and João Prata Rodrigues. They are lawyers of excellence in the area of competition, with a strong command of the economic component that characterises this area so much.’
Kernmandanten
Mastercard
PrimeDrinks
Volvo/Renault Trucks
NBC Universal
Grupo Bimbo
Tabaqueira (Philip Morris International Group)
Start Campus
Affidea
Dreammedia
Eleven Sports Network
Cabelte (Oxy Capital Group)
Live Nation
Farmodietica
Oxy Capital
Ascendi
Danone
Generali
Securitas
Grupo Impresa
IKEA
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising the Mastercard group on the consumer class action brought by Ius Omnibus, a consumer protection association, that is asking for compensation for all Portuguese consumers who were allegedly impacted by Mastercard’s anticompetitive practices, as identified by the European Commission.
- Advising PrimeDrinks on a investigation launched by the Portuguese Competition Authority (PCA) into the food and drinks sector, in particular, possible hub-and-spoke arrangements involving several suppliers and retailers.
- Advising Volvo / Renault Trucks on preparing their defence against dozens of damages claims stemming from an infringement decision issued by the European Commission relating to an alleged antitrust arrangement in the truck sector that led to the application of record-breaking fines totalling €2.93bn.
SRS Legal
Fielding a ‘a very competent and experienced’ team, SRS Legal handles the full gamut of both contentious and non-contentious competition matters, including merger control, private enforcement, and State Aid. The firm is a go-to for companies in regulated sectors, offering strong expertise in large-scale antitrust cases with international reach. Practice head Gonçalo Anastácio is widely recognised for his leadership in high-profile competition and regulatory cases in Portugal, earning praise for his ‘enormous experience.’ Sara Estima Martins maintains a busy practice, assisting clients on cartels, vertical agreements, mergers and state aid matters, while Nuno Calaim Lourenço stands out for his extensive experience in cartel investigations. Duarte Pirra Xarepe advises national and international clients on all areas of competition law, in particular companies active in the fast-moving consumer goods sector.
Praxisleiter:
Gonçalo Anastácio
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Sara Estima Martins, Duarte Pirra, Nuno Calaim Lourenço, Manuel Martinho Rocha
Referenzen
‘Fantastic team: always available and innovative in their approaches to proposed problems.’
‘I would highlight the people with whom we work directly for their availability, quick responses and ability to dialogue and for always presenting solutions clearly explaining the pros and cons of each one. Gonçalo Anastácio is recommended.’
‘SRS Legal has a very competent and experienced competition department, with vast knowledge of Portuguese legislation, the European Union and other countries with which they work.’
Kernmandanten
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company
APEGAC
ArcelorMittal
Barclays
Estée Lauder
Herbert Smith Freehills
L’Oréal
Nestlé
Securitas Direct
UNA Seguros
Unilever
Highlight-Mandate
- Assisting, along with local partners in Mozambique, ABU DHABI NATIONAL OIL COMPANY (ADNOC) PJSC in the merger control proceeding concerning the acquisition (> €1b), by ADNOC.
- Assisting Barclays in a case carried out by the PCA, involving the alleged exchange of information between banks.
- Advising DENTSU following the accusation by the PCA that the advertisers’ association APAN and the advertising agencies’ association APAP restricted competition by establishing a rule to prevent their members from participating in tenders for advertising services.
VdA
Standing out for its ability to ‘provide high-quality services’, the competition group at VdA possesses the skills and knowledge necessary to handle a wide range of prominent competition and regulatory matters across various industries. Renowned for its active involvement in the banking and telecoms sectors, the firm is highly sought after by multinational companies for advice on merger clearance mandates, investigations, State Aid and litigation matters. The team is led by Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro , who is well versed in the full gamut of antitrust matters. Nuno Ruiz stands out for his work on major antitrust investigations and cartel cases at the domestic and EU levels, while Cláudia Coutinho Da Costa earns praise for her ‘high technical competence.’
Praxisleiter:
Ricardo Bordalo Junqueiro
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Nuno Ruiz, Cláudia Coutinho da Costa, Bruno Zêzere Barradas
Referenzen
‘I believe that VDA provides a service with excellent quality in the matters in question. I highlight a high quality consultancy that maintains great proximity to the client. They have great knowledge of the sector of activity in which I operate.’
‘I would like to highlight Nuno Ruiz for his in-depth knowledge and experience in these matters. I believe it is truly unique and unique compared to any other colleagues in the same area.’
‘Cláudia Coutinho da Costa has high technical competence in the area of competition, is extremely committed and available, generating a close relationship with the client in a somewhat unusual way. Every day, she expresses his desire and commitment to getting to know our organisation more and more deeply and the sharing she has shown over the years has been very rewarding.’
Kernmandanten
Banco Comercial Português
Sport Lisboa e Benfica – Futebol, SAD
Vodafone Portugal – Comunicações Pessoais, S.A.
Parpública – Portuguese State
MEO – Serviços de Comunicação e Multimédia
Lusíadas Group
CUF Hospitals
Menzies Aviation
CTT
Grupo 2045 (private security)
Deutsche Bank
Active Brands
Caixa Central de Crédito Agrícola
Eutelsat Madeira, Unipessoal, Lda.
Vodafone Portugal, Comunicações Pessoais, S.A.
Zurich Insurance Plc
Somafel – Engenharia e Obras Ferroviárias, S.A.
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Banco Comercial Português in its defence against a class action brought by Ius Omnibus, a consumer association, claiming around €6bn in damages allegedly caused to consumers by an alleged infringement of competition law due to information exchange between competitors.
- Advised Sport Lisboa e Benfica – Futebol, SAD in the first no-poach investigation carried out by the Portuguese Competition Authority.
- Advised Parpública and the Portuguese Government in the cases brought by Ryanair against the European Commission in relation to State Aid granted to airline carriers TAP and SATA.
CMS
Renowned for its ‘technical quality’ and ‘practical knowledge’, the competition group at CMS is well versed in the gamut of merger control filings and antitrust investigations, as well as cartel cases. With a strong pedigree in cross-border deals, the firm serves an impressive roster of high-profile domestic and international clients, managing their filings across Europe and Africa. The team is spearheaded by Luís Miguel Romão , who covers the full scope of matters ranging from State Aid, cartels and litigation to merger control and implementation of antitrust compliance programs. Ana Cantanhede Gonçalves is recommended for her experience handling cartel investigations, vertical agreements, and merger proceedings.
Praxisleiter:
Luís Miguel Romão
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Ana Cantanhede Gonçalves
Referenzen
‘The team stands out due to its technical quality, practical knowledge of the area, network of knowledge, including in relation to the regulator, experience and current affairs, as well as the way in which is dedicated to and collaborates with the client.’
‘They provide practical and useful solutions.’
‘Luis Romão has exceptional interpersonal qualities, always remaining available and receptive to the client’s questions and suggestions, acting as a true partner and contributing to defining and obtaining the most appropriate and best result for the client.’
Kernmandanten
Multiple Clients of Madeira’s Free Trade Zone
Axianseu II
Group Ani Investment
Liga Portugal and 19 football clubs
Lidl Portugal
Knorr-Bremse España, S.A.
ANA – Aeroportos de Portugal S.A./Vinci
Coca-Cola EuroPacific Partners
Goldman Sachs International
EssilorLuxottica
MOP – Multimédia Outdoors Portugal
Highlight-Mandate
- Representing the Football League and 19 football clubs in the first ‘no-poach’ case before the national competition court and the ECJ.
- Advising a global professional services company on a no-poach case and on settling it with the PCA.
- Representing ANA, S.A., in a standalone liability judicial claim for an alleged abuse of dominant position.
Cuatrecasas
Maintaining its strong track record of representing large multinationals from the worlds of retail, TMT, banking and energy, Cuatrecasas is well versed in the full gamut of contentious and non-contentious competition matters. The practice is headed up by Pedro Marques Bom, who is a key port of call for multinational corporations seeking assistance on merger control, litigation, compliance and State Aid mandates. Luís Bordalo e Sá is praised for his ability to ‘find solutions to complex problems,’ as well as his ‘in-depth technical knowledge and availability to the client.’
Praxisleiter:
Pedro Marques Bom
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Luís Bordalo e Sá, Miguel Pena Machete, Inês Avelar Santos
Referenzen
‘Specialisation and response readiness.’
‘Ability to think outside the box and find solutions to issues in a specialist area that requires very in-depth and up-to-date knowledge.’
‘Miguel Pena Machete: in-depth knowledge and in-depth experience in the area; Ability to find alternative solutions.’
Kernmandanten
Bondalti
Lactogal
Acciona
OneVet
Santogal
Avril Group
Auchan Retail Group
Fnac Darty
Inetum
SCC – Sociedade Central de Cervejas e Bebidas
Daimler AG
Urbaser
CUF
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised Auchan on acquiring DIA/Minipreço and its entire business in Portugal.
- Advised Fnac Darty on acquiring Media Markt’s business and stores in Portugal.
- Advised Inetum on an investigation and subsequent infringement proceedings brought by the Portuguese Competition Authority (AdC) for alleged bid rigging.
DLA Piper ABBC
A popular choice for companies from the food, pharma, energy, transport, financial services and media sectors, DLA Piper ABBC has a wealth of experience in merger control, antitrust investigations and litigation, and EU law and regulatory matters. The practice is led by Miguel Mendes Pereira, a recognised expert in competition law, who often handles cartel cases, merger control issues, and State Aid matters.
Praxisleiter:
Miguel Mendes Pereira
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Carla Marcelino
Kernmandanten
Scania AB
Bacardi-Martini
Bolt
Mondelez
Yamaha
Carlsberg
Knorr-Bremse GmbH
Ardonagh Group
Super Bock
APAN – Portuguese Association of Advertisers
APAP – Portuguese Association of Advertising, Communication
and Marketing Agencies
DIGI Portugal
Highlight-Mandate
- Represents Super Bock in the pending judicial appeal before the Competition Court against the PCA fining decision.
- Represents EIN before the Portuguese Competition Authority as an interested third party in the merger control proceedings concerning the projected acquisition by US group Live Nation Ticketmaster of MEO Arena and the R&B concert promotor.
Sérvulo & Associados
Operating across a myriad of sectors, including TMT, energy, retail, healthcare and financial services, the team at Sérvulo & Associados is engaged by a diverse roster of corporate clients on the full scope of competition matters, including M&A, investigations, State Aid issues, and litigation. Leading the team is Miguel Gorjão-Henriques, who specialises in EU, competition and pharmaceutical law. Alberto Saavedra is noted for his diverse practice focus, assisting a range of domestic, international companies and public authorities on merger control proceedings and State Aid matters.
Praxisleiter:
Miguel Gorjão-Henriques
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Alberto Saavedra, Francisco Marques de Azevedo
Referenzen
‘Knowledge, experience and objective.’
‘In-depth knowledge of legislation, and ability to support the most complex issues, without losing focus on the client’s concrete needs. Relatively close and dedicated, seeking the best result for the client.’
‘Miguel Gorjão-Henriques and Alberto Saavedra convey the calm confidence that comes from the ability to navigate the most complex topics with confidence. The partnership established with clients allows a detailed understanding of the challenges they face.’
Kernmandanten
Portuguese Government
Pingo Doce
EuroBic Bank
TAP Airlines
European Commission
BES Bank
Autonomous Region of Madeira
Abbott
Apifarma
Banco Português de Fomento (BPF Bank)
Municipality of Lisbon
Fresenius
Galp
IBM
Liga Portugal
Highlight-Mandate
- Representing Pingo Doce in judicial proceedings following 10 hub and spoke condemnatory decisions totalling €190m of fines.
- Assisting the Portuguese Government and the Government of the Madeira Autonomous Region before the European Court of Justice in relation to the compatibility of the Madeira Free Zone aid scheme with the European Union State Aid rules.
- Representing EuroBic bank in three class actions for damages, because it allegedly harmed consumers for exchanging sensitive information with the other banks.
Uría Menéndez
Uría Menéndez stands out as a strong choice for a diverse range of clients, who turn to the team for its wide-ranging capabilities in contentious and non-contentious competition matters. The team is led by the ‘excellent professional’ Tânia Luísa Faria, who maintains a busy practice assisting clients on the full gamut of antitrust matters. Margot Lopes Martins is noted for her focus on merger control issues, abuse of dominance positions, and restrictive practices.
Praxisleiter:
Tânia Luísa Faria
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Margot Lopes Martins; Guilherme Neves Lima; Afonso Marques dos Santos
Referenzen
‘I would like to highlight the exceptional technical competence and specialised legal knowledge in this niche sector.’
‘Tânia Faria clearly stands out for her high quality and technical rigour, extensive knowledge of the sector, reputation in the market. We should also mention her great availability, capacity and speed of response, commercial sense and creativity. Tânia has advised us on highly complex cases. She has our complete trust.’
‘Tânia Luisa Faria is knowledgable and has great technical quality. She is outstanding and finds creative solutions.’
Kernmandanten
Banco Santander Totta
Unión de Créditos Inmobiliários
Abanca Corporación Bancaria, S.A. – Sucursal em Portugal
JCDecaux
Unilabs
Hospital Particular do Algarve
DAF Trucks
KKR Group
Arrow Global Group
Meliá Hotels International
Spark Legal Network
Booking.com, B.V
Providence
Palex
Kiwa
TAP
MCH
Waste Management
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising and representing Banco Santander Totta, Unión de Créditos Inmobiliários, and Abanca in actions filed by a consumer association before the Competition Court, regarding the alleged exchange of commercial sensitive information in the banking sector.
- Advising and representing JCDecaux on competition matters – including merger-control proceedings – resulting from the Portuguese tender for outdoor advertising displays in Lisbon, as well as in the subsequent judicial appeals.
- Advising and representing Hospital Particular do Algarve, S.A. in connection with the PCA’s antitrust investigation into the domestic private hospitals sector and the appeal against the PCA’s decision in that process.
Abreu Advogados
Under the joint leadership of Armando Martins Ferreira and Inês Sequeira Mendes , the competition group at Abreu Advogados is a trusted choice for clients in the sports, consumer goods, energy, and healthcare sectors, offering expertise in merger control, abuse of dominance proceedings, cartel investigations, and EU law matters. Ferreira handles the full scope of competition matters, standing out for her experience advising on cases in Mozambique as a foreign legal expert, while Mendes is a key port of call for clients operating in the healthcare, life sciences and pharmaceutical sectors.
Praxisleiter:
Armando Martins Ferreira; Inês Sequeira Mendes
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Sónia Gemas Donário
Referenzen
‘Concern for customer support, empathy and continuous feedback.’
‘Resilience and great ability to work.’
‘Great team.’
Kernmandanten
Alsa/National Express (Infrastructure and Transportation)
APIFVET
Carmonti
Cbre Global Investors
Compañia De Servicios De Bebidas Refrescantes, S.L. (Coca-Cola Iberia) (Food & Beverage)
Continental
Daimler
EDA – Empresa de Distribuição Alimentar, Lda
Embraer
FREY
Fromageries Bel Portugal
Globalvia
Grupo Bel (Palavras de Prestígio, Lda)
Igas
LIDL & CIA
MISUMI / DAYTON PROGRESS
MUTARES
National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Personnel
Newpal
Prio Group
Resitejo / Rstj
SERVILUSA
Sport Lisboa E Benfica
Staples
TERICYCLE, Inc. / Ambimed – Gestão Ambiental, Lda.
Tokyo Gas
Highlight-Mandate
- Advising Mutares in the projected transaction involving the acquisition of EFACEC.
- Advising LIDL in the antitrust investigation opened by the Portuguese Competition Authority for the alleged cartel with other food retailers and distributors.
- Advising the Portuguese Association of the Pharmaceutical Industry of Veterinary Drugs (APIFVET) on a current basis, including all required assistance in Competition law, Regulatory & EU law related matters.
Antas da Cunha Ecija
Following the integration of competition boutique Cruz Vilaça Advogados, Antas da Cunha Ecija is now a popular destination for clients in myriad industries, including digital, energy, environment, pharmaceuticals, transport, infrastructure, and financial services, seeking advice on the full range of antitrust matters. Practice head José Luís da Cruz Vilaça is especially involved with clients in the digital and banking sectors. Rita Leandro Vasconcelos left the firm in January 2024.
Praxisleiter:
José Luís da Cruz Vilaça
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Paulo Sande, Mariana Tavares
Referenzen
‘The team has demonstrated capacity for great competence and involvement in the various processes contracted, even in new and complex processes in the technical and legal domain, with special emphasis on national or European competition processes, as well as in the European market. It has also always demonstrated total availability.’
‘I recommend Cruz Vilaça, Paulo Sande and Mariana Tavares. They all have exceptional qualities.’
‘The practice has unique understanding of the legal problems and provides deep expertise.’
Kernmandanten
AEPSA
APHP
Autoridade Antidopagem de Portugal
Barraqueiro Transportes
Galp Energia, SGPS, S.A.
Google LLC
Grupo Actuarial
Horizon Infrastructure Fund
IberBlue Wind España, Sociedad Limitada
Insud Pharma
PH Informática, S.A.
Qualcomm Inc.
Sport TV Portugal, S.A.
Highlight-Mandate
- Advised PH Informática on the creation of a digital platform, including compliance with national and EU law, to help PH Informática provide information to public authorities and other stakeholders on the legal implications of developing such a platform.
- Advised Barraqueiro SGPS S.A. on a proposed acquisition of sole control of a Portuguese company that operated in the heavy road passenger transport sector.
- Prepared and submitted two Formal Complaint, for AEPSA, with the European Commission on the incompatibility with EU law and the internal market of the water management system in Portugal.
Garrigues Portugal
Well regarded for its ‘technical excellence and a multidisciplinary approach’, Garrigues Portugal has a track record of advising both domestic and global clients in the automotive, technology, consumer goods, and banking sectors through complex cartel cases and merger control proceedings. Lauded for his ‘meticulous attention to detail and a proactive stance’, practice head Luís Pinto Monteiro focuses on cartel matters, antitrust litigation, national and international merger control and the implementation of antitrust compliance programmes.
Praxisleiter:
Luís Pinto Monteiro
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Miguel Cortes Martins, Sofia Vilas Boas
Referenzen
‘This is a firm that offers excellent service in Portugal. Lawyers are available every day of the week and at any time of the day or night. They have very sophisticated teams. They are used to dealing with high-end, international clients with unusual levels of demand. This ability to deal with these customers comes naturally.’
‘We have a great relationship with Luís Pinto Monteiro. He is a very complete lawyer who is deeply dedicated to his clients. Combines a strong ability to understand the business and the problems we face.’
‘Luís Pinto Monteiro is someone very focused on finding solutions. He has intelligence and pragmatism, complemented by deep dedication, technical knowledge and the ability to generate consensus in a very charming way in situations that are sometimes tense and difficult. He is clearly a reference lawyer in Portuguese law that we recommend to anyone who needs legal assistance.’
Kernmandanten
Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria (BBVA)
WPP
Volvo
Jaguar Land Rover
Polestar
Associação Nacional de Farmácias
Samsung
Dukes Education
Japan Tobacco International
Prestibel – Empresa de segurança, S.A.
BAXI
Novadelta
Highlight-Mandate
- Assisting BBVA in a cartel in the banking sector for allegedly exchanging confidential information related to commercial conditions and production volumes of various financial products, with a particular emphasis on credit for house purchase and consumer credit.
- Assisting Prestibel – Empresa de Segurança, S.A., the leading Portuguese private surveillance company in an alleged cartel sanctioned by the Portuguese Competition Authority.
- Assisted Baxi on antitrust investigation related to price fixing and geographic allocation of clients within the Portuguese territory.
Gómez-Acebo & Pombo
Gómez-Acebo & Pombo assists a diverse client roster on the full gamut of competition matters, standing out for its proficiency in managing complex international transactions with multijurisdictional merger requirements, as well as its adept handling of cartel probes and disputes. The team is led by Mário Marques Mendes , who has extensive experience in all areas of competition law, including restrictive practices, abuse of dominance positions, merger control and State Aid. Pedro Vilarinho Pires oversees the firm’s TMT practice and adeptly supports Mendes in a range of competition matters. Joaquim Caimoto Duarte is recommended for his expertise in merger control proceedings and cartel cases before the PCA and the European Commission.
Praxisleiter:
Mário Marques Mendes
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Joaquim Caimoto Duarte, Pedro Vilarinho Pires
Kernmandanten
Procter & Gamble
IVECO
Algeco
Henkel
Grupo Prisa
Grupo Nabeiro – Delta Cafés
Premium Green Mail
AMC Natural Drinks
Anticimex
Dense Air
Cubico Sustainable Investments
CAE
Highlight-Mandate
TELLES
Fielding a ‘super efficient’ team with ‘extensive know-how’, TELLES excels in handling merger control filings with the PCA and the European Commission. The practice is experienced in navigating complex competition issues, from horizontal and vertical agreements to abuse of dominance cases and cartel investigations, working with both domestic and international clients. Practice head Leyre Prieto maintains a busy practice, frequently assisting clients on cross-border merger control transactions. Former co-head Margarida Rosado da Fonseca left the firm in May 2024.
Praxisleiter:
Leyre Prieto
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Joana Whyte
Referenzen
‘The Telles competition team is super efficient and has extensive know-how on this subject.’
‘I would like to highlight the total availability, efficiency and involvement with the client’s business of lawyer Leyre Prieto.’
‘Great availability and speed of response.’
Kernmandanten
TEAK Capital, BV
TANGOR Capital, SA
Zeitreel
TAKEDA Farmacêuticos Portugal, Lda.
Super Bock Group
BA Glass, S.A.
Euroatla – Navegação e Transitos Lda.
Red Bull Portugal, Unipessoal, Lda.
APCV – Associação Produtores de Cervejas.
MATUDIS – Comércio de Produtos Alimentares, Lda.
Raclac S.A.
NORS, S.A.
Vallis Capital Partners, SGPS, S.A.
Vigent Group SGPS, S.A.
ALSA Grupo SLU
Rubis Energia Portugal, S.A.
Crest Capital Partners SCR
Acorda Therapeutics, Inc
Ageas Portugal – Companhia de Seguros
Dyson Spain, S.L.U.
Highlight-Mandate
- Assisting Vetrerie Riunite Group on a merger control filing before the Portuguese Competition Authority regarding its acquisition by ANGOR S.A.
- Assisting Zeitreel on compliance with competition law in distribution relations, established in Portugal.
- Acting for Takeda Farmaceuticos Portugal, Lda regarding compliance with competition law in distribution relations, established in Portugal and abroad.
Miranda & Associados
The ‘pragmatic’ team at Miranda & Associados is steadily strengthening its position in the Portuguese competition market. Representing a range of domestic and international clients, the team is skilled in both transactional matters and antitrust proceedings. The practice is steered by Miguel Marques de Carvalho, who is praised by clients as ‘always available and pragmatic in his approach.'
Praxisleiter:
Miguel Marques de Carvalho
Referenzen
‘The team is pragmatic in approaching issues. Very client friendly language.’
‘Miguel Marques de Carvalho, direct contact, always available and pragmatic in his approach. transparency in the preparation of fee proposals.’
‘The team is growing and is appearing on very important issues. The biggest highlight is its leader.’
Kernmandanten
Tabaqueira (Philip Morris’ subsidiary in Portugal)
Synlab AG
OZ Energia
DSV A/S
BMW
Celfocus (a subsidiary of Novabase group)
Louis Dreyfus Armateurs
Boston Scientific
Portuguese State
Farmodiética
Abu Dhabi Ports
DOF
LAM – Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique
Olam Agri
Chevron
Mastercard
Highlight-Mandate
- Assisted Synlab AG in a antitrust investigation launched by the Portuguese Competition Authority concerning several possible competition law infringements involving major labs in Portugal.
- Represented the Portuguese State in a litigation involving State Aid issues, where the claimant was CTT, the incumbent postal service company in Portugal.
- Representing Abu Dhabi Ports in merger control proceedings before the Angolan Competition Authority regarding the acquisition of Unicargas’ businesses in Angola, specifically port and airport concessions, transport, and logistics.
PRA-Raposo, Sá Miranda & Associados, Sociedade de Advogados RL
The ‘top-notch’ team at PRA-Raposo, Sá Miranda & Associados, Sociedade de Advogados SP RL is engaged by a diverse roster of corporate clients on the full scope of competition matters, including merger filings, competition litigation and day-to-day regulatory and compliance matters. The team is led by the ‘excellent’ Miguel Miranda, who continues to handle a steady stream of high-value transactions in the Porto area. The 'excellent' Efigénia Marabuto Tavares is also recommended.
Praxisleiter:
Miguel Miranda
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Efigénia Marabuto Tavares
Referenzen
‘Huge work capacity, very diverse team with a very high general knowledge. It is equipped with good facilities.’
‘Miguel Miranda and Efigénia Tavares have great work capacity, enormous knowledge of the topics covered/spoken, and availability. They are very insightful in evaluating the proposed problem and excellent professionals.’
‘PRA is the law firm I know that brings together everything we value most – rigor, availability and speed.’
Kernmandanten
Salvador Caetano Group
AR TELECOM
SONAE CAPITAL
ABB
CTT – Correios de Portugal
JETION Solar (CHINA) Company Limted
The Editory Collection Hotels
ANTRAM-Associação Nacional de Transportadores Públicos Rodoviários de Mercadorias
TIEL Group
EGEO Group
WÄRTSILÄ
FERROVIAL
RNM Group
AMPEMEP – Associação de Micro, Pequenas e Médias empresas
Associação Ius Omnibus
VITACRESS
Environment Recycling (France)
Lusíadaenergia
Madre Fruta – Organização de Produtores
Comunidade Intermunicipal do Cávado (CIM Cávado)
TRANSFOR Group
Highlight-Mandate
- Acting for CTT- Correios de Portugal in litigation proceedings against Daimler in a truck cartel matter that resulted in a record fine of €2.93bn.
- Representing Ius Omnibus in an abuse of dominant position class action against Google, which compels users to adopt Google Play’s own billing system for in-app purchases.
- Advised Ingredientes e Produtos Alimentares on the competition aspects of a distribution agreement with a Spanish company.
Pérez-Llorca
Since launching its Lisbon office in 2023, Pérez-Llorca’s competition team has been growing steadily, with notable additions including practice head Rita Leandro Vasconcelos, who joined the firm from Cruz Vilaça Advogados, and Adolfo Mesquita Nunes and Débora Melo Fernandes who arrived from Gama Glória. Highlighted for its ‘essential knowledge and client-orientated approach’, the team is well versed in the full scope of contentious and non-contentious competition matters.
Praxisleiter:
Rita Leandro Vasconcelos
Weitere Kernanwälte:
Adolfo Mesquita Nunes; Débora Melo Fernandes
Referenzen
‘The team combines essential knowledge and client-orientated approach. This ability allows you to be differentiating and truly respond to customer needs.’
‘The service has been provided personally by Rita Leandro. The fact that she is directly rendering the advice is very much appreciated as she has an extended experience in the area.’
Kernmandanten
Ferrero Iberica
Medway – Operadores Ferroviários
Vapo Atlantic
APEF – Associação Portuguesa de Empresas Ferroviárias
Highlight-Mandate
- Representing Vapo, an importer of fuel into Portugal and distributor of Kuwait Petroleum, in several claims against the Portuguese energy agency regarding alleged non-fulfillment of biofuel incorporation obligations.
- Advising APEF on supporting Instituto da Mobilidade e dos Transportes (IMT) to notify a state aid measure to the European Commission (SA.107166 – Extraordinary and exceptional support for rail freight undertakings).