The defense team for Fábio Luís Lula da Silva, commonly known as Lulinha, has confirmed that Antônio Carlos Camilo Antunes, referred to as Careca do INSS, financed a trip that Lulinha took to Portugal. This acknowledgment came during a statement made to Minister André Mendonça of Brazil's Supreme Federal Court (STF) on the 16th of October. According to the defense's filed document, Lulinha was invited by Careca do INSS to explore the production of cannabidiol-based medications without any formal commitment required from him.

In the detailed explanation provided by the lawyers, it was stated that the invitation was willingly accepted by Lulinha, leading to his travel to Portugal in November 2024. The trip included visits to potential suppliers and properties involved in the cannabidiol sector, which was described as the extent of Lulinha's involvement with the project. The defense emphasized that Lulinha was not part of any negotiations, did not invest labor or capital, and did not receive any remuneration for his presence.

This admission raises questions about the ethical implications of lobbyist-funded trips involving the family of a high-ranking political figure, particularly considering Lulinha’s father, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, is the President of Brazil. The controversy surrounding the financing of such trips might provoke further scrutiny regarding lobbying practices in the country, as well as the potential conflicts of interest when public officials and their families engage with private enterprises within the pharmaceutical sector.