Competition Bureau teams up with US and Mexico to tackle anti-competitive conduct at FIFA World Cup

The Competition Bureau of Canada, in collaboration with the US Department of Justice Antitrust Division and the Federal Economic Competition Commission of Mexico, has launched a joint initiative to tackle anti-competitive conduct by businesses and individuals involved in providing goods and services related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The joint effort aims to strengthen the ability of each country's competition authorities to identify and combat illegal business practices, including price fixing, bid rigging, and market allocation, among others. Collaboration with American and Mexican competition authorities will allow the Bureau to be better equipped to combat illegal business practices.

Commissioner of Competition Matthew Boswell emphasized the importance of robust collaboration among law enforcement agencies, stating, "Strong cooperation among law enforcers and partner organizations is key to ensuring that illegal conduct is investigated and appropriate action is taken. The Competition Bureau will do everything it can to pursue those who seek to unjustly profit from the World Cup."

Assistant attorney general of the United States Justice Department's antitrust division, Jonathan Kanter, believed that the historic event would be an exciting time for fans and bring millions of dollars in economic growth to cities across America.

The Antitrust Division will be vigilant in detecting anti-competitive conduct by any businesses and individuals that exploit the economic opportunities created by the games, and we look forward to working with our partners in Mexico and Canada on this effort," Kanter said.

Andrea Marván, chairwoman of the Federal Economic Competition Commission of Mexico (Cofece), expressed the commitment to ensuring fair competition and economic benefits for all during this historic event. She stated, "We will work alongside the U.S. and Canadian Antitrust Agencies to ensure that, no matter where, all markets are working competitively and efficiently during this historic event."

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to take place in 16 cities across Canada, the United States, and Mexico, generating substantial business contracts across various sectors. The collaboration comes as a response to the potential economic impact of the event. It underscores the commitment of the three nations to prevent anti-competitive behaviour that could harm businesses and consumers alike.

The Competition Act prohibits collusion between business competitors, and whistleblowers are encouraged to report any possible violations to the Competition Bureau, with their identities kept confidential.