The General Anti-Corruption Regime (RGPC), established by Law No. 93/2021, imposes significant obligations on companies, including small businesses in the Autonomous Region of Madeira, that employ 50 or more workers. These obligations are fundamental to strengthening transparency and business ethics, assuming increased importance for regulatory compliance and the prevention of legal risks.
Among the essential requirements of the RGPC, the following stand out:
- code of ConductA document that defines the principles and rules of ethical behavior that should guide the actions of the company and its employees, promoting an environment of integrity within the organization.
- Reporting ChannelA confidential mechanism for reporting irregularities, which must guarantee the protection of whistleblowers and comply with the requirements set out in the GDPR and the European Directive on Whistleblowing.
- Plan for the Prevention of Risks of Corruption and Related Offenses (PPRCIC)This plan identifies, assesses, and mitigates the risks of illegal practices within the company, promoting preventive and proactive management.
Furthermore, companies are required to register with electronic platform of the National Anti-Corruption Mechanism (MENAC), ensuring the supervision and monitoring of compliance with legal provisions. This registration is an essential step for validating the implemented internal procedures.
Failure to comply with these obligations may result in significant fines, ranging from €1,000 to €44,891 for companies, depending on the severity of the infringement. For small businesses in Madeira, ensuring compliance with the RGPC is not just a matter of legal compliance, but also an opportunity to consolidate an ethical reputation in the local and national market.