X, the social media platform owned by Elon Musk, is nearing the reinstatement of its services in Brazil, contingent upon the payment of a final fine. According to reports from Bloomberg and CNBC, Brazil’s Supreme Court has mandated that X pay a fine of 10 million Reais (approximately $1.9 million) for failing to comply with a previous court order.
Justice Alexandre de Moraes emphasized that the company’s return to operation in Brazil hinges on its adherence to Brazilian law and respect for the court’s directives regarding national sovereignty. This fine follows a pattern of non-compliance, including a ban that X violated on two separate occasions.
Previously, Musk resisted Moraes’ orders, which included demands to remove and freeze certain accounts believed to be disseminating disinformation. Musk characterized these orders as a form of censorship, leading to a decision to cease operations in Brazil altogether rather than comply.
As a result, Moraes took decisive action by directing internet service providers in Brazil to block access to X and implementing a new regulation that imposed significant fines on users attempting to access the platform via a VPN. Additionally, the court froze the Brazilian bank account of SpaceX’s Starlink service, withdrawing substantial funds to cover earlier fines levied against the platform.
X Nears Return to Brazil After Court Orders Payment of $1.9 Million Fine for Non-Compliance
In a recent turn of events, X’s legal team appears to be taking steps toward compliance. Reports indicate that the company filed a document with the court that identifies its legal representative in Brazil, a requirement set by Moraes.
Furthermore, X has removed the accounts specified by the judge in his initial orders, signaling a shift toward alignment with the court’s demands. This move may suggest that the company is prepared to address its previous infractions and work within the framework of Brazilian law.
Despite the complexities surrounding X’s operations in Brazil, there are indications that the company is close to resolving its legal issues. Moraes has indicated that once the fine is paid, X could “immediately return to its activities.”
This statement hints at the possibility of lifting the ban on X in Brazil, provided the company has managed to address all the necessary legal requirements. The reinstatement of services would be a significant development for Brazilian users, who have been unable to access the platform since the imposition of the ban.
X’s situation in Brazil reflects the ongoing tension between platform governance and regulatory compliance. As the company navigates its legal challenges, the recent steps taken by its legal team suggest a willingness to engage with Brazilian authorities. If the fine is paid promptly and all conditions are met, X may soon re-establish its presence in Brazil, marking an end to a tumultuous chapter in its international operations.
