Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

What are consumer disputes?

Consumer disputes are disputes initiated by a consumer against a supplier of goods or service provider, concerning contractual obligations arising from contracts of sale or service provision, concluded between suppliers of goods or service providers established in Portugal and consumers resident in Portugal and in the European Union (Article 2, paragraph 1 of Law No. 144/2015, of 8 September).

What is ADR?

 ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution) refers to mechanisms available to consumers and businesses to attempt to resolve consumer disputes out of court, in a faster and less costly manner. ADR covers mediation, conciliation and arbitration. The ADR process begins with an attempt to reach an agreement through mediation or conciliation. However, if such an agreement is not reached, the parties may still resort to the Arbitration Tribunal through a simple and swift process.

What are ADR entities?

ADR entities are independent bodies with specialist staff that impartially assist consumers and businesses in reaching an amicable solution. These entities are authorised to carry out mediation, conciliation and arbitration of consumer disputes. Such entities must be registered on the list provided for in Article 17 of Law No. 144/2015, of 8 September.

Alternative Dispute Resolution Entity in case of disputes:

CIMAAL - Centro de Arbitragem de Consumo do Algarve
(Algarve Consumer Arbitration Centre)

Ninho de Empresas, Edif. ANJE
Estrada da Penha, 3rd floor, room 26
8000 Faro

Phone: 289 823 135
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Facebook: facebook.com/consumidoronline

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9:00 / 13:00 - 14:00 / 17:00