Business Corruption in Portugal

Foreign companies operating in Portugal may encounter some instances of corruption, but they do not identify corruption as a problem for thier operations. Corruption and abuse of power are most prevalent at the municipal level, particularly in the areas of urban planning and public procurement. The Portuguese Criminal Code makes it illegal to give or accept a bribe , and there is a law (in Portuguese) that establishes the terms of liability for corruption offences in international trade and private activities. Amendments (in Portuguese) to the Criminal Code comply with GRECO, UN and OECD's recommendations on fighting corruption. Individuals and companies are criminally liable for corruption offences, including bribery of foreign public officials in international commerce. Facilitation payments are prohibited, and gifts and hospitality may be considered illegal depending on their intent. Recurring corruption scandals involving high-level politicians, local administrators and businesses abusing public funds have revealed that safeguards to counter corruption, and abuses of power have been somewhat inefficient in Portugal.

November 2015
GAN Integrity Solutions