The European Commission has launched formal legal action against Portugal, citing what it describes as a critical failure to meet mandatory EU maritime security obligations. The shortcomings, the Commission warns, could expose the country to significant risks, including unlawful acts such as hijacking.

In a letter of formal notice, Brussels outlined where Portugal is allegedly falling short in performing the administrative and supervisory tasks required under European legislation. The EU framework imposes detailed responsibilities on ship operators and port authorities, including how inspections and security controls must be carried out.

The Commission said these rules are intended to strengthen the protection of EU ports against intentional unlawful acts and to safeguard critical infrastructure. It added that Portugal is not completing the full set of administrative and control functions needed for effective enforcement of the maritime security regime.

The EU’s maritime security structure aims to protect international and domestic shipping from major threats. It is designed to prevent hijacking, the kidnapping of passengers or crew, attacks on port facilities, and the smuggling of weapons into transport chains.

Portugal has two months to respond to the Commission and demonstrate corrective action. Failure to do so would lead the Commission to escalate the case to a reasoned opinion, moving Portugal closer to a binding judgment and potential financial penalties from the European Union Court of Justice.

A comparable procedure is also ongoing against Sweden, which did not address earlier requirements and was referred to the Court in May.