Offenses against the economy and food safety

The Regime of Administrative Infractions against the Economy and Food Safety, created by Decree-Law No. 23/2009 and updated in 2023, is an important law in Timor-Leste that protects consumers and ensures that economic activities are fair and safe. Managed by AIFAESA, IP (Autoridade de Inspeção e Fiscalização da Atividade Económica, Sanitária e Alimentar), this regime establishes rules to avoid problems with food and non-food products, as well as punishing those who disrespect them. Let's simplify this so you understand how it works and how to avoid problems!

What is a food offense?

A food infraction occurs when someone produces, transports, stores or sells food (or food additives) in a way that they shouldn't. The law divides these infractions into three types: light, serious and very serious. The law divides these infractions into three types: light, serious and very serious, depending on the risk they pose. Let's take a look at each one and how not to fall foul of them:

1. Light infractions
   • What are they? Damaged food or additives (torn or crumpled packaging), lacking requirements (no expiry date or clear composition) or already expired. It also includes selling something that doesn't correspond to what it promises (e.g. the label says one thing, but the product is something else).
   • Punishment: Fines of US$250 to US$5,000 for individuals, or up to US$10,000 for companies, depending on size.
   • How to avoid it? Always check the packaging before selling or buying - no expired products or those with confusing labels. Keep everything well stored so as not to damage it.
2. Serious Offenses
   • What are they? Spoiled food (decaying or smelling bad) or having things that can be used to counterfeit products (such as machines or suspicious substances).
   • Punishment: Fines of US$500 to US$10,000 for individuals, or up to US$50,000 for large companies.
   • How to avoid it? Store food in clean, cool and dry places. Don't use or store materials that could mislead others about the quality of what you sell.
3. Very Serious Offenses
   • What are they? Selling counterfeit food (with foreign substances or adulterated to make it look better) or destroying/exporting essential goods (such as rice or water) when there is a shortage on the market.

   • Punishment: Heavy fines, from US$2,500 to US$10,000 for individuals, or up to US$75,000 for large companies.

   • How to avoid it? Be honest! Don't mix things in products to cheat and respect export rules, especially in difficult times.

Why does it matter?

These rules exist to protect your health and your pocket. Imagine buying rotten fish or oil with something dangerous in it - nobody wants that! AIFAESA inspects markets, stores and factories to make sure everything is in order. If something is wrong, they can fine, seize products or even close the place down for a while.


Tips for staying out of trouble

• Take good care of the products: Store in a suitable place, away from strong sunlight or humidity.
• Be clear: Put expiry dates and the right ingredients on the labels.
• Report it: If you see anything suspicious (such as spoiled food on sale), let AIFAESA know.
• Follow the law: Don't try to circumvent the rules, because the fines are high and can include extra punishments, such as being excluded from fairs or public tenders.

This regime is simple: do the right thing, take care of quality and respect others. That way, everyone in Timor-Leste is safer and healthier!