An incident of violence involving young people on Avenida do Infante in Funchal sparked social media comments about the sale of alcohol to minors. Although it was not possible to determine if the youths involved were intoxicated or had illegally acquired alcohol, the relevant legislation is clear.
Decree-Law No. 50/2013 prohibits the sale and provision of alcoholic beverages to those under 18, even without commercial intent. The law also allows for the request of identification documents to verify age.
Violating these rules constitutes a very serious economic offense, punishable under the Legal Regime of Economic Offenses, contradicting claims of a lack of penalties.