MercadoLibre Stock Rallies as Brazil Orders Apple to Ease App Store Payment Rules

In recent weeks, MercadoLibre, a prominent e-commerce company in Latin America, has been at the center of a significant legal development in Brazil. The nation's antitrust regulator, Cade, has mandated that Apple alter its policy on in-app purchasing restrictions, following a complaint filed by MercadoLibre. The complaint stems from accusations that Apple imposed unfair limitations on the distribution of digital goods and services within its App Store, including prohibiting apps from offering digital products and services from third parties.

MercadoLibre's lawsuit, which was initiated in 2022 in both Brazil and Mexico, pointed out that Apple's policy required developers to use its payment system exclusively and restricted them from redirecting customers to their websites for purchases. In response, Cade has ruled that Apple must allow developers to integrate tools enabling customers to purchase services or products outside of applications. Furthermore, developers should have the option to offer alternative in-app payment methods besides Apple's payment system.

Apple now faces a 20-day deadline to implement these changes, with a penalty of 250,000 Brazilian reais (approximately $43,000) per day for non-compliance. This decision marks a substantial victory for MercadoLibre, reflecting a larger global discourse on digital platform regulations and the balance of power between technology companies and service providers.

This legal action underscores the dynamic nature of the e-commerce landscape in Latin America, where MercadoLibre has been an influential player. By challenging one of the tech industry's giants, MercadoLibre aims to level the playing field for digital transactions and foster a more competitive marketplace.