September 18, 2025
Brazil’s Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE) has approved a settlement with Continental in an investigation into alleged cartel activity in the automotive parts market, specifically in the manufacture of braking systems.
The investigation, launched in 2021 by CADE’s General Superintendence, examined evidence of collusion in the sale of auto parts. The case already included a leniency agreement and a previous settlement with Bosch. In April 2025, the case was assigned to Counselor José Levi, and Continental Teves AG & Co. requested settlement negotiations the following month. Talks continued until September, when the final proposal was submitted.
According to Levi, the settlement reflects Continental’s commitment to acknowledge its role and reach a consensual resolution. “Considering the facts, circumstances, and the reasons presented, I find that the criteria of convenience and opportunity for signing the agreement have been met, without prejudice to revisiting aspects of the matter in possible future cases,” he said.
Under the agreement, Continental must cease the investigated practices, adopt compliance measures to prevent future violations, and pay R$272,746.40 ($51,000) to Brazil’s Diffuse Rights Defense Fund (FDD). The payment must be made in a single installment within 60 days of the settlement’s publication in the Federal Official Gazette.
