RIO DE JANEIRO, February 13, 2025 — The Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) has condemned several entities and individuals from the gym sector in Rio de Janeiro for anti-competitive practices that restricted market competition and harmed consumers. The ruling was made during a trial session on Wednesday, February 12.
The case stems from a complaint filed in October 2022 by Smart Fit and Self It, who alleged that certain clauses in a collective labor agreement were limiting competition in the city’s gym industry. Specifically, these clauses imposed restrictions on the number of clients allowed in weight rooms and group classes at gyms.
CADE’s investigation revealed that the clauses were designed to undermine the low-cost gym model, making it difficult for these types of gyms to maintain, expand, and operate within the city. The entities behind the anti-competitive behavior included Sindacad/RJ and its affiliates, as well as Sinpef/RJ.
José Levi, the case’s rapporteur, emphasized that while restrictions may be legitimate if they are designed to protect collective interests—such as ensuring compliance with labor laws or environmental protections—such measures must not unduly interfere with the competitive environment. In this case, the imposed restrictions were deemed disproportionate and unnecessary.
As a result of the investigation, CADE imposed hefty fines on the involved parties. Sinpef/RJ was fined R$100,000 (approximately USD 19,500), while Sindacad/RJ faced a R$200,000 (around USD 39,000) penalty. The fines for individuals ranged from R$10,300 (about USD 2,000) to R$15,000 (roughly USD 2,900).
In total, the fines amounted to over R$300,000 (USD 58,500).
CADE’s decision underscores the regulatory authority’s commitment to promoting fair competition and protecting consumers in all sectors, including the rapidly growing fitness industry.
