Portugal to introduce law targeting sale of counterfeit drugs

During the celebration of the Municipal Police of Lisbon’s 135th anniversary, Internal Administration Minister Luís Neves revealed that the government is working on a legislative change to criminalise the trade of counterfeit drugs. The draft law would establish a dedicated public-offence category for fraudsters who sell substances that appear to be narcotics but are not, addressing a legal ambiguity that has been repeatedly exploited.

The initiative responds to a call from Lisbon City Council president Carlos Moedas for clearer penalties. Neves emphasized that one outlet lack of a specific penal provision creates insecurity and hampers effective intervention in public areas. The new provision would give authorities a solid legal basis to act against such activities, eliminating the existing grey zone.