EU launches infringement proceedings against Portugal for delaying "Right to Repair" rules

The European Commission initiated a violation procedure against Portugal due to the deficiency in translating the European Union "Right to Repair" regulation, which aims to enable consumers to repair their broken products more easily instead of buying new ones, into national legislation.

Portugal was given two months to correct the deficiencies and respond to the Commission.

However, this does not mean that Portugal has been fined.

What does “Right to Repair” bring?

The new EU system specifically aims to extend the life of repairable consumer products.

For certain products, the consumer can request repairs from the manufacturer for a reasonable period of time and at a reasonable price, even after the legal warranty period.

Products such as smartphones, washing machines and refrigerators are among the most important practical examples of the system.

The aim is to reduce the need for the consumer to automatically purchase a new one when a device breaks down.

Taking it to another repair shop does not automatically relieve the manufacturer of its liability.

One of the notable consumer rights of the new European framework is that it facilitates independent repair services.

Even if a product has previously been repaired by an independent repairer, the manufacturer cannot automatically reject a subsequent request for suitable repair for that reason alone.

In addition, with the European Standard Repair Information Form system, it is aimed for the repairman to provide more standard information to the consumer about price and duration.

Punishment for Portugal? given?

No.

Portugal is currently in the European Commission's letter of formal notice phase.

This is one of the first formal stages of the EU infringement procedure.

Portugal must respond to the Commission within two months and complete the necessary legislative transfer.

If the Commission does not find the response sufficient, it may send a reasoned opinion — parecer fundamentado at the next stage.

However, the process does not go directly to fines from here.

Litigation and possible financial sanctions may come later.

Why is it important for the consumer living in Portugal?

This regulation is not just environmental policy.

It directly concerns the household budget as it aims to extend the lifespan of phones, white goods and electronic products and strengthen the consumer's repair options.

The infringement procedure for Portugal stems from the issue of full and timely implementation of EU-level rights in national law.

Resources

Renascença / Lusa — 25 September 2026

https://rr.pt/noticia/pais/2026/09/25/bruxelas-abre-processo-a-portugal-por-nao-transpor-diretiva-que-incentiva-reparacao-de-produtos/486796/

European Commission — Right to Repair

https://commission.europa.eu/law/law-topic/consumer-protection-law/consumer-contract-law/rules-promoting-repair-goods_en