AdC Imposes Fine on Azores Tourist Guides for Price Fixing
The Portuguese Competition Authority has fined the Azores Tourist Information Guides Association for fixing minimum prices for tourist guide services, violating competition rules.
28.01.2026 | Portuguese competition authority
The Portuguese Competition Authority (AdC) has imposed a fine of EUR 8,200 on the Azores Tourist Information Guides Association (AGITA) for engaging in price fixing. The investigation revealed that AGITA recommended minimum prices to its members via email, significantly restricting competition in the Azores archipelago.
AGITA, established in 2020, is the sole association for tourist guides in the region, representing approximately 43% of the local market with 57 active members as of December 2025. The AdC's findings indicate that the association's actions constituted a serious infringement of competition law, which prohibits price fixing by associations.
The proceedings began following a complaint in February 2024, leading to an investigation that included information requests and interviews. In April 2025, the AdC issued a Statement of Objections, allowing AGITA to defend itself before the final decision was made.
The AdC emphasized that while business associations are vital for supporting their members, they must not engage in practices that distort competition, such as price fixing. The authority also highlighted its commitment to enhancing enforcement against restrictive practices in the region.
