The Portuguese Competition Authority (AdC) has initiated an in-depth investigation into the acquisition of joint control over Sotagus – Terminal de Contentores de Santa Apolónia, S.A. by Yilport Iberia, S.A. and GS Marítima, Lda. The AdC's decision stems from concerns that the merger could significantly impede effective competition in the national market.

Yilport is a key player in port and maritime transport, operating various container terminals in Portugal, while Grupo Sousa has interests in shipping, port operations, and other sectors. Sotagus, currently solely controlled by Yilport, operates the Santa Apolónia port terminal under a concession agreement.

The merger is of vertical nature, involving companies at different levels of the port cargo handling and maritime transport chain. The AdC is particularly focused on assessing potential risks related to access of competing shipping companies to the Sotagus terminal and its impact on competitive conditions in maritime connections.

The AdC's investigation also aims to evaluate the potential effects of the merger on competition in the market, including concerns about future public tenders for concessions of terminals in the Eastern Port Zone of Lisbon.

The AdC's decision to launch an in-depth investigation does not represent a final ruling. Following the investigation, the AdC may either approve the transaction without conditions or prohibit it if significant competition issues are identified.