By Hash Techs 
Anatel has increased its actions against Brazil’s biggest online platforms, considering the possibility of blocking Amazon and Mercado Livre due to selling uncertified electronic products. The agency has not officially announced this extreme measure, in order to avoid companies using it as a legal defense, but the intention is evident.
Anatel reported that a sporadic sale has become regular.
Infringements, particularly in the sale of mobile phones and unapproved laptops, are frequent according to Anatel, endangering consumer safety and market compliance.
Brazilian law requires Anatel certification for all electronics sold in the country to ensure safety and compatibility with national networks. However, Anatel’s oversight reveals a concerning issue: millions of unauthorized products are being sold in the market.
Abinee predicts that in 2025, around 5.2 million unauthorized mobile phones will be sold, making up 14% of the market. This is seen as unfair competition and detrimental to legitimate manufacturers by the association.
Fines do not provide a solution
Anatel has issued numerous fines that total close to the legal limit of R$ 50 million. However, for companies like Amazon and Free Market, this amount is seen as insignificant given their substantial revenue.
The agency is looking for a stronger response by temporarily blocking websites in Brazil, as stated by the president of Anatel, Carlos Baigorri, who is waiting for action from the federal court.
What are the opinions of Amazon and the Free Market?
Companies argue that they are not held directly accountable for sales, functioning solely as middlemen or digital platforms. They are contesting the fines in court and have not yet provided an official response to Anatel’s new warning.
The agency disputes this claim, stating that despite using advanced technology to identify irregularities, illegal sales persist, as per adviser Alexandre Freire.
Among the major platforms, Shopee is the only one that has actively worked with the agency’s technicians to comply with Brazilian regulations, while Amazon and Free Market are still non-compliant, prompting Anatel to consider blocking them as an emergency measure.
Are you in danger of getting blocked?
Justice is the sole determinant. If website blocking is authorized, it could have significant consequences, affecting both companies and the e-commerce industry. This action may set a precedent for platform accountability and signal a shift in sector regulation in Brazil.
Currently, there is no official request, but it may occur in the following days.
Source: Article from S. Paulo