Agreement between the APDCAT and the ACCO to work together in the face of market challenges and competition when personal data is used

The Catalan Data Protection Authority and the Catalan Competition Authority have signed a protocol to establish a framework for collaboration between the two organizations with the aim of promoting the exchange of information, training and dissemination in data protection and competition policy and mutual support.

The director of the Catalan Data Protection Authority (APDCAT), Meritxell Borràs, and the president of the Catalan Competition Authority (ACCO), Roger Loppacher, have signed a collaboration protocol to establish a cooperation framework between both organizations in order to face the challenges of the market and the competition that involve the use of personal data. The protocol aims to improve the exchange of information, material support in the exercise of certain activities, and the promotion of training and dissemination activities.

It must be said that, in accordance with European jurisprudence, the collaboration between the authorities that ensure compliance with competition and data protection regulations is suitable for the correct application of Union law, taking into account that access to personal data can be key to securing dominant market positions in the digital economy.

Cooperation and exchange

Specifically, the protocol that is now being signed establishes that the two authorities will cooperate with regard to the exchange of information, to guarantee a consistent application of the corresponding regulations in cases that affect their areas of action.

The protocol also shows the commitment of the two authorities to provide mutual support and collaborate in the exercise of certain activities, to the extent possible and depending on the resources available at any given time.

In addition, they will work together in the preparation and dissemination of documents, and in the organization of conferences and training activities on the right to the protection of personal data or the defense and promotion of competition.