The ‘multidisciplinary’ team at Abreu Advogados demonstrates a ’high level of expertise’ in merger control, cartel investigations, private enforcement and State aid at both national and EU levels. The practice is jointly led by Armando Martins Ferreira, a ‘strategic thinker’ advising corporations in regulated sectors on complex merger control and litigation, and Inês Sequeira Mendes, recognised for her experience in regulatory compliance and the competition aspects of corporate structuring and M&A. Maria João Melícias, who joined the firm in May 2025, is also a co-coordinator and is commended for her practical experience at the Portuguese Competition Authority and the CJEU.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘Abreu Advogados stands out for its high level of professionalism, attention, and dedication to the cases entrusted to it. It also distinguishes itself through its rapid response to all problems presented and its adaptation to new issues that arise throughout the proceedings. The entire competition department maintains a high level of expertise, leading us to trust their work once again.’
‘They are very transparent about the risks of the different strategies, which provides the client with all the relevant information to decide.’
‘A multidisciplinary team that allows you to have a 360º view of the situation.’
‘The team's approach is marked by pragmatism and close client relationships, prioritising practical solutions adapted to the reality of each business. The team is distinguished by its availability, technical knowledge and ability to respond quickly and effectively. The department is also characterised by its cross-functional approach, collaborating in an integrated manner with other areas of the firm, allowing for a multidisciplinary approach to complex issues.’
‘Maria João Melícias is a huge asset to Abreu Advogados with deep knowledge of competition law in practice. It is vital as a client to know that your legal team has this practical experience in an area as grey as competition law. Maria João Melícias is one of the cleverest competition lawyers I have encountered: diligent, creative, and with strong advocacy skills.’
‘Armando Martins Ferreira is very smart, a great strategic thinker.’

Key clients

Bel Group
ACTION
AFIFI
Alsa/National Express
APIFVET
Busway
CARMONTI
Cbre Global Investors (Real Estate)
CIMA
CIRSA
Compañia De Servicios De Bebidas Refrescantes, S.L. (Coca-Cola Iberia) (Food & Beverage)
CONTINENTAL (Automotive Parts Manufacturing Company)

Work highlights

Advising SYNLABHEALTH on an antitrust investigation by the Portuguese Competition Authority for an alleged cartel for Covid-19 testing and other lab analysis.

Advised CIRSA Group, a gaming and leisure company, on a joint venture, part of a merger transaction, notified to the AdC.