1. Admiral Gouveia e Melo Postpones Presidential Candidacy Decision Until After Legislative Elections, Hoping the Campaign Will Rise Above “Petty Political Party Struggle”

Gouveia e Melo delayed the decision on his potential Presidential candidacy, stating he doesn’t want to contribute to unnecessary noise during the legislative elections. At an event in Arouca for the Honrar Portugal association, he emphasized the importance of focusing on the elections to form a credible government with the capacity to govern, which he believes is what the Portuguese people desire. Meanwhile, he acknowledged growing voter abstention and concerns about public detachment from the democratic process, stressing the need to keep democracy representative.

The admiral expressed hope that the “petty political party struggle” would shift to discussions about economic development and international security, framing these issues as critical for the country’s future. He indicated that, while he doesn’t control his supporters, he is grateful for their backing and prefers individual support rather than organizational endorsements. 

On a side note, Gouveia e Melo was set to participate in rafting on the Paiva River in Arouca, but due to safety concerns, the activity was substituted with a walk. Among the participants was businessman Mário Ferreira, who voiced his support for Gouveia e Melo’s potential run for President, describing him as the right candidate for the role, with the qualities of honesty, determination, and the right profile for the position.

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2. Experts Say That Portugal Should Follow Spain’s Example and Lower the Alcohol Limit for Driving

On Wednesday, the Portuguese Society of Alcoholology (SPA) insisted that Portugal should follow Spain’s lead, reducing the blood alcohol limit for driving to 0.2 grams per liter. The Spanish parliament approved the proposal to lower the current 0.5 g/l limit to 0.2 g/l for all drivers, regardless of profession or experience. Joana Teixeira, president of the SPA, praised the initiative, emphasizing the significant difference in effects between 0.2 and 0.5 g/l on a driver’s coordination and judgment. She explained that, at 0.2 g/l, drivers experience slight euphoria and reduced inhibitions, while 0.5 g/l leads to more severe impairments like slower speech and motor coordination issues.

In Portugal, the alcohol limit is 0.5 g/l for most drivers and 0.2 g/l for professional drivers, but Joana Teixeira advocates for a “zero” tolerance approach. The psychiatrist highlighted the dangers of alcohol impairment in driving, noting that the road accident rate doubles with 0.5 g/l compared to 0.2 g/l. With alcohol consumption at its highest in Europe, Portugal faces an alarming rise in alcohol dependency, with a 50% increase over the past decade, according to recent surveys.

Given the context, the President of the SPA called for widespread awareness campaigns to educate the public about the risks of driving under the influence, stressing that alcohol’s effect on perception and behavior is often underestimated. Note that, as daily alcohol consumption rates in Portugal lead Europe, the SPA insists on the urgency of addressing alcohol dependency and its connection to road safety, urging policymakers to adopt stricter measures in line with international standards for safer driving.

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3. Penalties for Assaulting Police Officers and Teachers to Increase Starting in April

Starting April 18, in Portugal, a new law will increase penalties for those who assault police officers, firefighters, teachers, doctors, journalists, and other public service agents. The law strengthens the legal framework for assaults against law enforcement and public servants, transforming some into public crimes, which means victims no longer need to file a complaint for criminal procedures to be initiated. Additionally, the law includes exemptions from court fees in these cases, further reinforcing the protection of public agents.

The penalty range for assaulting law enforcement and public service agents will be from one to five years in prison, but those who use “violence, including serious threats or harm to physical integrity” against police officers, military personnel, and firefighters could face up to eight years. Another key change is the increased penalties for throwing projectiles at vehicles owned by public servants, such as police, doctors, teachers, or firefighters, with offenders facing up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 240 days.

The law extends these harsher penalties to local government members, prison guards, public transport workers, tax authority members, healthcare professionals, and more. As mentioned, any assault against these individuals will be categorized as a public crime, thus eliminating the need for victims to file a formal complaint. In short, this new legal framework emphasizes the protection of those who serve the public by reinforcing the severity of attacks against them.

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4. Five Issues That Will Dominate the Electoral Campaign

Less than two months before Portugal’s early legislative elections, themes like Spinumviva, the crisis surrounding Prime Minister Luís Montenegro’s family business that led to the fall of the Government, dominate the political discourse. President Marcelo’s request for a “serene, dignified, elevated” debate seems increasingly difficult amidst intense accusations. The truth is that the scandal will be unavoidable in the campaign. Montenegro defends his actions while Pedro Nuno Santos, from PS, pushes claims of concealment and corruption. Meanwhile, Chega highlights the ties between PSD and PS, accusing both of corruption.

Economy-wise, despite political instability, Portugal’s economy shows resilience. Growth projections are somewhere around 2.5%, with the country witnessing a fiscal surplus and decreasing public debt. However, criticisms of PSD and PS’s economic policies are mounting, with accusations of benefiting the privileged while inequality, youth emigration, and low wages persist. Housing also remains a key issue, with prices rising as government interventions, like new housing projects, fail to fully address the crisis.

Health policy will be another hot topic, especially with mounting criticism of the National Health Service (SNS) under both the AD and PS. Despite government efforts to reduce waiting times, hospital inefficiencies continue, and the approved PPPs have sparked opposition. Finally, immigration policy has become a battleground, with Montenegro taking a tough stance on border control and integration, a topic that had long been dominated by Chega. As such, the upcoming election will test whether these themes push voters toward or away from the established political system.

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5. “Green Lane” for Hiring Immigrants Coming Soon

The Portuguese government is creating a “green lane” to expedite the issuance of work visas for foreign workers, aiming to support business recruitment while regulating immigration. This protocol, which is still under discussion, outlines a five-step process starting with employers submitting documentation to the Directorate General of Consular Affairs (DGACCP) for visa applications. After assessments from AIMA and UCFE, consular posts make the final decision, with the entire process taking no more than 20 days if legal requirements are met. Employers must fulfill several responsibilities, such as ensuring valid contracts, offering professional training, and providing adequate accommodation.

Employers’ obligations are extended to ensure ethical recruitment practices, preventing exploitation or human trafficking, and guaranteeing housing arrangements that won’t worsen local housing pressure. Businesses will need to demonstrate that they can meet these commitments, with confederations ensuring compliance. Additionally, companies will also need to ensure the presence of health insurance coverage and provide the necessary documentation, which includes personal details of recruited foreign workers.

Note that the green lane initiative stems from a broader government effort to tighten immigration rules while meeting labor market needs. Originally proposed in summer 2024, it marks a shift toward controlled immigration that balances business needs with social responsibility. Employers must now show they can meet the criteria, with the possibility of suspension for non-compliance. The protocol is set to be signed soon, following minor adjustments to its initial framework.

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6. From Fire Prevention to Aid Support, the New €6.4 Billion Forest Plan

The Portuguese government has launched a €6.4 billion Forest Intervention Plan until 2050, emphasizing the importance of managing 36% of the country’s territory, which is forest. With €246 million annual investments, peaking at €400 million by 2030, the plan prioritizes forest resilience and fire prevention. Funds from the Environmental Fund and community sources will support forest management, ecosystem services, and recovery of burned areas, targeting an additional €1.4 billion annual value added to the forest economy by cultivating industries like cork, wood, and paper.

Among the plan’s 19 measures, it includes incentives for active forest management, a tax model to boost productivity, and the promotion of forest-based products in construction. The government also aims to increase tree planting, restore 20% of the national forest, and manage 420,000 hectares annually. Through the creation of Village Condominium projects and new legislation, it targets enhancing forest resilience, controlling invasive species, and advancing carbon market development to combat climate change.

Fire prevention is at the plan’s core, with a focus on investigating fire-related crimes, improving legislation for faster action on private land, and creating 42,000 hectares of fuel management strips by 2026. The government is also pushing for reforms in rural property management to address fragmentation, with changes in property acquisition, and better protection for holm oaks and cork oaks. Additionally, long-term goals include strengthening forest governance, with a new strategy to enhance the ICNF’s (Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests) role in ensuring a more resilient and sustainable forest future.

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7. Lisbon Is One of the Ten European Cities Where People Consume the Most MDMA

Lisbon ranks among the top European cities for MDMA consumption per capita, according to the EUDA’s latest wastewater analysis. Along with Belgium, the Czech Republic, and the Netherlands, Portugal stands out for high levels of MDMA – which, depending on the form, can be also known as ecstasy – in wastewater. The study, conducted by the SCORE group, analyzed 128 cities, including Lisbon, Porto, and Almada, revealing a general rise in MDMA use from 2023 to 2024.

In addition to MDMA, cocaine and amphetamines saw increased consumption in most cities, with ketamine and methamphetamine levels remaining relatively stable. Cannabis, however, showed a downward trend across Europe, except in Lisbon and Almada, where consumption continues to rise. Portugal remains one of the top four countries for cannabis use, alongside Spain, the Netherlands, and Norway.

The EUDA also tracks weekly drug consumption patterns, finding that substances like MDMA, ketamine, and cocaine peak on weekends. Meanwhile, cannabis, amphetamines, and methamphetamines show little daily variation. Note that this ongoing study provides valuable insights into drug use trends across Europe, and Portugal continues to counter some of them, particularly in cannabis consumption.

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8. Seventy Restaurants in Portugal Will Receive Top Honors from the Largest Spanish Guide

The Repsol Guide, a major competitor to Michelin, is bringing its prestigious “suns” to Portugal, with 70 restaurants already set to receive one, two, or three suns, the highest honors. Unlike traditional award ceremonies, chefs will know beforehand whether they have won. The gala in Santarém will be “super dynamic,” with different phases, including fun moments and formal speeches, following the lively Spanish format that raised expectations for this year’s event.

In Spain, chefs like Pedro Sánchez and Susi Díaz received three suns, a recognition for an “exceptional gastronomic experience,” where service, ingredients, and execution are flawless. The guide, which will be digital-only in Portugal, will also spotlight 180 recommended restaurants, with a sustainable sun awarded to those committed to eco-friendly practices. This addition to the culinary narrative will unite chefs and gastronomic professionals, offering a new platform for recognition.

The Portuguese chefs Henrique Sá Pessoa, Carlos Teixeira, and Marlene Vieira all expressed their excitement for the potential to raise their profiles in Portugal with the new guide, which brings a refreshing approach to awards. The event, which will highlight individual achievements, will also celebrate the community of chefs with a cocktail and welcome party. The Portuguese gala, unlike many boring awards shows, promises to be engaging, with suggestions for fun presenters like Joana Marques and César Mourão.

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9. In April, the Doors of Avenida da Liberdade Will Be Open Even Wider

Avenida Open Week returns from April 5 to 11, opening 24 spaces along Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon’s most luxurious avenue. From Cinema São Jorge to Palácio da Anunciada, visitors will be able to explore the behind-the-scenes of some of Lisbon’s most iconic locations. These also include Teatro Variedades, Capitólio, and the Sofitel Lisboa Liberdade and Tivoli hotels, among others. A mix of guided tours, exhibitions, and open classes will allow locals and tourists alike to discover the cultural, gastronomic, and artistic treasures of the city’s landmark avenue.

Hands-on experiences will take center stage, with a coffee workshop at Delta The Coffee House Experience, personalized eyewear sessions at André Ópticas, fresh pasta making at Libertà Kitchen, and a jewelry creation process reveal at Maria João Bahia’s atelier. Guests can also enjoy a cocktail masterclass at SEEN by Olivier, a wine tasting at 1933 – Wine & Spirits Collection by Garrafeira Nacional, pilates sessions, styling services at Guess and Pinko stores, and other interactive activities that promise to engage participants throughout the week.

All activities are free but require prior registration due to limited spots. Visit the event’s website for full details and sign up by March 31. Note that Avenida Open Week offers a unique opportunity to dive into Lisbon’s culture, craftsmanship, and luxury, inviting both locals and visitors to experience the city in a new and exciting way. To register, please send an email to [email protected].

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10. New Museum – MACAM – Opens Its Doors in Lisbon, with 500,000 Euros Per Year for Acquisitions

MACAM opened this Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the renovated Palácio Condes da Ribeira Grande, showcasing over 215 works from Armando Martins’ vast collection. The Portuguese businessman, who began collecting art at 18, invested in his first original painting in 1974 and made it a lifelong journey. His new museum will continue to expand, with plans to spend 500,000 euros annually on new acquisitions. The five-star hotel, which is part of/connected to the museum will feature artworks in its 64 rooms, presenting a fusion of art and hospitality.

The collection spans Portuguese works, with galleries dedicated to renowned artists like José Malhoa, Paula Rego, Almada Negreiros, and Amadeo de Souza-Cardoso, alongside international ones, like Antoni Tàpies. Among the works, a restored chapel hosts Carlos Aires’ installation “Trinity,” and the permanent collection, “A Collection in Two Times,” offers a narrative bridging art across generations, emphasizing pivotal moments in artists’ careers. Apart from that, the museum’s expansion will include temporary exhibitions and spaces for emerging artists, like Marion Mounic’s “Harem”, for example.

When it comes to the museum’s future acquisitions, the focus will be on broadening geographical diversity, expanding into Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Despite Armando Martins’ personal approach to collecting, he now listens to his team’s input regarding exhibitions like “The Anthropocene” and “War: Reality, Myth, and Fiction”, which engage with global issues, pushing critical reflection. It is important to consider that this new museum strives to be “The House of Private Collections.” The goal seems to be to showcase private collections and foster dialogue on climate change, conflict, and art’s role in shaping discourse.

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Storm Martinho swept across Portugal on March 19-20, 2025, unleashing destructive winds and torrential rain that have left a trail of damage across the nation. The powerful weather system, described by officials as one of the most severe to hit the country in recent years, paralyzed transportation networks, damaged infrastructure, and injured several people as it tore through mainland Portugal and the island of Madeira.

The Greater Lisbon region bore the brunt of the storm’s fury, with Mayor Carlos Moedas describing the situation as “very difficult and violent” for the city. Multiple injuries were reported as fierce winds hurled debris, branches, and roof tiles through the air. As emergency services worked to restore normalcy, Prime Minister Luis Montenegro assured citizens that “the situation is now stabilized,” though recovery efforts continue nationwide.

Storm Martinho by the Numbers

The scale of Martinho’s impact can be felt in the numbers:

• 8,000+ total incidents reported nationwide
• 2,800+ incidents in Greater Lisbon alone (35% of the national total)
• 800 serious incidents in Setúbal (10% of the national total)
• 300+ incidents each in Porto and Coimbra
• 159 km/h maximum wind speed recorded at Fóia in Monchique, Algarve
• 120 km/h wind gusts in Madeira’s highlands
• 50,000 residents left without power across Leiria, Coimbra, and Vila Real
• 13,000 emergency personnel deployed (firefighters, police, municipal workers)
• 22 roads closed in Lisbon
• 7 people injured nationwide, including 6 in Lisbon
• 6-meter waves in Madeira
• 200 students affected by roof damage at Bernardim Ribeiro Primary School
• 13 residents rehoused after roof collapse in Lourinhã
• 193 incidents recorded in the Algarve, including 143 fallen trees

In the Algarve, which experienced less severe impacts than anticipated, civil protection services mobilized 719 operatives and 235 vehicles to address incidents, primarily related to wind damage rather than flooding.

Continued Alert through the Weekend

The Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA) warns that adverse conditions will persist through Saturday, March 22, with yellow and orange alerts remaining in effect for several districts including Lisbon, Setúbal, and Leiria. Authorities forecast continued heavy rainfall, strong winds, and rough seas, presenting a high risk of flooding in vulnerable areas.

In the Algarve specifically, warnings are in place for rainfall that may include hail and thunderstorms, wind gusts up to 75 km/hour along the coast and in mountainous areas, and waves reaching four to five meters on the western and southern coasts.

Interior Minister Margarida Blasco has urged residents to heed safety instructions from the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC), encouraging people to remain at home when possible and avoid flood-prone areas as Martinho’s effects continue to threaten the region through the weekend.

1. Air Transport Grows 6% at the Start of the Year. Portuguese Airports Welcomed 4.2 Million Passengers in January

In January, Portuguese airports welcomed 4.2 million passengers, marking a 5.9% rise compared to the same period in 2024. France led as the primary country of origin and destination, followed by Spain and the UK. The average daily arrivals reached 65,600, a historic figure reflecting a 6.8% increase. Meanwhile, 81.1% of the arrivals were international, with Europe as the main origin (63.2%), and the American continent second.

Passenger traffic to European countries accounted for 66.4% of departures, growing 4.1%, while 10.3% of passengers headed to the Americas. Cargo and mail saw a slight decline of 0.5%, totaling 18.2 thousand tons. Note, however, that, despite these variations, air transport continued to grow, with Lisbon Airport handling 56.9% of total traffic, reflecting a 6.9% increase from last year.

In terms of specific airports, Porto followed Lisbon with 22.4% of passengers, while Funchal showed the highest growth, up 9.3%. France maintained dominance as both the main origin and destination, while Spain and the UK swapped positions in terms of origin and destination. It is important to consider that this growth indicates the continued importance of international connections, especially within Europe and the Americas.

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2. Political Earthquake, Government’s Collapse, and New Elections – What to Expect Before May 18

A political earthquake has shaken Portugal, leading to the collapse of the Government and the announcement of early legislative elections for May 18. The country faces a tense political environment, with parties divided over the causes of the crisis, which was sparked by suspicions surrounding the Prime Minister’s family business. The Portuguese President, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, emphasized the importance of a “clear, frontal, clarifying” election debate, calling for a peaceful transition similar to the one of 2024. Until the new elections, the interim Government operates with limited power, unable to make decisions with long-term impact.

As the political deadlock continues, the outcome of the May elections remains uncertain, with no party appearing to have a clear advantage. Political campaigns are expected to focus on leadership and ethics, as parties grapple with the future of the country, its democracy, and its economy. The Socialist Party, led by Pedro Nuno Santos, blames the Prime Minister for the crisis and urges the electorate to choose a “durable” Government, while PSD, the party that was in power, blames its Government’s success for the opposition’s actions that led to the crisis.

With less than two months between the rejection of the motion of confidence and the elections, Portugal enters a new electoral cycle with an uncertain path ahead. The Liberals, Left Bloc, and Chega also express concerns about the future, while calling for a focus on presenting solutions rather than blame. The key to the upcoming elections lies in resolving the crisis of governance, with parties facing the challenge of securing a stable and effective Government to address the pressing needs of the Portuguese people.

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3. Fitch Maintains Portugal’s Rating, Political Crisis Weighs on Decision

Fitch maintains Portugal’s A- rating, with a positive outlook despite the political crisis. The agency emphasized concerns over early elections, which could undermine Portugal’s fiscal position, hinder the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR), and delay critical projects. Despite these risks, Fitch’s decision reflects Portugal’s strong fiscal discipline and the anticipated resilience of its economy. However, instability from the political crisis might affect economic confidence, potentially slowing growth and investment.

Political volatility and external risks are key concerns, as Fitch highlighted the potential impact on the PRR’s execution and overall economic performance. The agency noted that challenges like trade tensions and geopolitical issues could harm exports, contributing to a less favorable external environment. Nevertheless, Fitch maintains a positive outlook, citing Portugal’s expected continued debt reduction and robust economic growth, with a projected acceleration of 2.3% this year.

Despite the political uncertainties, Fitch predicts that either PS or PSD will likely form the next government, maintaining prudent fiscal policies. Apart from that, Portugal’s budgetary performance remains stronger than most European peers, with moderate surpluses expected. Note that Fitch’s decision follows positive ratings from DBRS and S&P, with Moody’s next in line to assess the country’s creditworthiness in May.

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4. Óbidos Chocolate Festival Brings Revolutionary Spanish Chef Jordi Roca for a Masterclass

From March 21st to April 6th, the village of Óbidos will be filled with everything related to chocolate, such as a chocolate caravel, chocolate cocktails, and chocolate fossils. It may sound like a dream, but this will be the reality for the 22nd edition of the sweetest festival in Portugal. The festival promises to showcase how innovation and indulgence can go hand in hand, with over 90 national and international chefs and 85 tons of chocolate. The festival kicks off on March 21st with a variety of activities for all attendees.

A major highlight right at the start of the festival is a masterclass by Spanish chef Jordi Roca, from the revolutionary El Celler de Can Roca restaurant in Girona. With three Michelin stars and one green star, Roca will be in Óbidos to present his innovative immersive perfume line inspired by his confections, and he will also speak about his work. However, Roca will not be the only chef to attend.

In addition to famous chefs, the International Chocolate Festival will feature 80 hours of showcooking, chocolate fossils for children, and 7 competitions, including “Best Chocolate Product 2025” and “Best Chocolate Cocktail 2025.” There will also be a Molecular Laboratory, where families can participate in a workshop to learn new techniques for chocolate-making. Additionally, the festival will also feature a chocolate market and a chocolate sculpture laboratory that will showcase figures from science, such as Albert Einstein and Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man.

Where? Óbidos (near the castle). When? From Mar 21 to Apr 6, Friday to Sunday, from 11am to 9pm. How much? Between 6 and 45 euros.

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5. TAP Marks 80 Years with Promise to Maintain Portuguese Identity and Focus on Brazil

TAP, the Portuguese airline founded on March 14, 1945, celebrated its 80th anniversary with a ceremony at the BTL (Better Tourism Lisbon) tourism fair in Lisbon. Despite its ongoing privatization process, TAP is committed to maintaining its Portuguese identity, as emphasized by Mário Chaves, the chief operating officer. “TAP is Portugal,” he stated, adding that its iconic brand, colors, and essence remain intrinsically linked to the nation. Although the company’s focus on Brazil continues, TAP is exploring new markets, particularly in the United States, where recent investments are already bearing fruit.

Note that the airline is currently undergoing a restructuring process amidst the challenges of operating in an overcrowded airport, limiting its expansion options. Mário Chaves assured that TAP is exploring alternative growth avenues, remaining adaptive as it has for 80 years. TAP’s expansion includes new routes such as Porto-Boston, and the company is evaluating further markets for more flights. Despite facing obstacles, TAP’s commitment to growth and its distinctive role in the national economy remain unquestionable.

In addition to celebrating its anniversary, TAP launched a new “Tier for Life” status in its Miles & Go program, rewarding long-time customers with lifetime benefits. A commemorative book, “Voar É Preciso”, showcasing TAP’s 80-year history, was also presented. The airline, with its notable action on the economy and global presence, continues to focus on delivering excellence. The message is that, while TAP navigates these transitions, it is clear that it will adapt, maintaining its essential link to Portugal while, at the same time, seeking new possibilities.

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6. Conditions Seem to Be in Place to Establish AI Factories in the Country

Portugal is positioned as a critical data corridor between Europe and the South Atlantic, with the country’s growing connectivity and renewable energy paving the way for it to become more than just a transit point. Equinix’s Carlos Paulino sees this as the “moment of opportunity” for establishing data centers tailored to the AI era. But, despite Portugal’s strategic location and advancements in infrastructure, it still lags behind countries like Spain, which moved faster in attracting such investments. However, with evolving trends in data storage and renewable energy, Portugal has the conditions to establish digital factories – processing and retaining data locally.

Equinix’s Lisbon data center is nearing full capacity, and with a second facility almost completed, the company is doubling down on its commitment to Portugal’s digital future. The country’s potential, combined with ongoing developments like the energy partnership with Sonnedix, makes it an attractive destination for high-density power projects required by emerging AI demands. As Paulino notes, the challenge remains in the unpredictability of licensing, something that could hinder further investments. Still, Portugal’s remarkable geographical coverage and connectivity make it a significant player for future growth in the digital and AI landscape.

Although, despite the progress, licensing and regulatory challenges persist, as municipalities still struggle to grasp the complexity of data center operations. Nevertheless, Paulino expresses confidence in Portugal’s future, believing that with continued efforts and clearer regulations, the country can become a hub for AI, quantum computing, and other disruptive technologies. While Spain currently outpaces Portugal, the landscape is shifting, and new competitors only highlight the growing vitality of the market, positioning Portugal for a bright and innovative future.

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7. Portugal and Spain Together Form the World’s Largest Tourism Platform

Portugal and Spain, together, form the largest tourism platform in the world, with Portugal welcoming 30 million tourists in 2024 and Spain 94 million. Anabela Freitas from Turismo Centro de Portugal, speaking at the BTL Tourism Fair, stressed the importance of cross-border cooperation between Centro, Alentejo, and Extremadura. “We must work together to position ourselves as the largest tourism platform,” she affirmed, emphasizing the strategic collaboration between these regions to enhance their visibility on the global tourism map.

Jesus Vinuales from Extremadura highlighted the region’s partnership with Portugal, calling it “the differentiating factor” for tourism in the Spanish region. He pointed out that this cooperation allows travelers to explore two countries in one trip, reversing the historical divide between them. José Santos from Turismo do Alentejo added that this partnership is a “unique opportunity” to transform regional potential into a commercial asset, boosting competitiveness, especially during low-demand seasons. He stressed that the regions’ shared cultural and territorial continuity is a powerful advantage.

Plans for 2025 include a series of promotional actions in Madrid and Lisbon, targeting media and the general public, with an additional business meeting set for November in Elvas. Note that these initiatives will promote natural spaces like national parks, biosphere reserves, geoparks, lakes, and cultural landmarks such as UNESCO World Heritage sites, historic villages, and castles. The partnership also focuses on gastronomy and wines, giving travelers the opportunity to immerse themselves in two rich cultures while exploring diverse landscapes in a single destination.

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8. Autoeuropa to Manufacture New Low-Cost Electric Car

Autoeuropa has been selected by Volkswagen to manufacture the ID.Every1, an electric vehicle priced at approximately 20,000 euros (for the German market). This decision marks a historic moment for Portugal, as the production guarantees the future of the Setúbal unit and its integration into the European green reindustrialization. The new model, aimed at the European market, was chosen after competition between Autoeuropa and factories in Poland and the Czech Republic. Note that, with this move, Volkswagen signals its commitment to electrification and sustainable mobility in Europe.

The ID.Every1 production aligns with Volkswagen’s ambitious goal of launching nine new models by 2027, including four electric vehicles built on the MEB platform. The Portuguese Minister of Economy, Pedro Reis, highlights the importance of this project, which will boost the Portuguese economy and ensure long-term benefits for the national supply chain. This investment enhances Portugal’s role in shaping the future of electric mobility, reinforcing the country’s strategic position within the European automotive sector.

It is important to consider that Autoeuropa’s success in securing this project is linked to Portugal’s advantageous location, particularly in relation to PowerCo’s battery factory in Sagunt, Spain. The decision to produce the ID.Every1 in Portugal was further reinforced by the availability of competitive production costs in the Iberian Peninsula, compared to other European options. As the European automotive sector moves toward greener solutions, Autoeuropa’s new role will catalyze Portugal’s growing influence in the electric vehicle market, contributing significantly to the region’s green industrial transformation.

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9. Seventeen of Lisbon’s Twenty-Four Parishes Have Illegal Immigration Networks Operating

The Lisbon Investigation and Criminal Prosecution Department (DIAP) is investigating more than 40 cases involving fraudulent residence certificates, with 17 of Lisbon’s 24 parishes identifying illegal immigration networks. These networks facilitated the issuance of fake addresses and false testimonies. The main operation, centered in Penha de França, was a network led by Hindustani figures that aided immigrants in obtaining essential documents for legalizing their status in Portugal. Note that these schemes involve thousands of immigrants registered at fraudulent addresses.

Sofia Oliveira Dias, the Penha de França parish president, uncovered the operation after noticing a high volume of Bangladeshi citizens requesting certificates for the same address. The Judicial Police discovered that two apartments in one street had a total of 4,349 “residents,” paid for using real residents’ addresses in exchange for 50 to 70 euros, and witnesses received 10 to 20 euros per fraudulent testimony. This scheme spanned over 71% of Lisbon’s parishes, including Penha de França, Arroios, Beato, and Marvila, with more cases suspected in various other areas.

In response to the rising number of cases, Lisbon’s parishes tightened their regulations on issuing residence certificates. A new alarm system was introduced to flag suspicious requests, and in-person testimonies and the prohibition of copying forms have become standard procedures to prevent fraud. However, this does not seem to be enough and the investigation continues as authorities address the illegal immigration networks operating in the city.

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10. The Marvila Bakehouse Wants to Bring More People to “Brunch” in Marvila

The Marvila Bakehouse, opened in April 2024 at 8 Marvila, offers slow-fermented bread and a variety of pastries, such as croissants, basque tarts, and cakes. The café, with a spacious kitchen and large terrace, produces not only for itself but also for two other restaurants – Dear Breakfast and Taqueria Paloma. Julien Garrec, the French entrepreneur behind these businesses, highlights the perfect location in Marvila for both production and serving customers, aiming to provide fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced through partnerships like Equal Food, an organization that collects and sells imperfect products from local producers at a discount rate of up to 40%.

At The Marvila Bakehouse, the menu centers around sandwiches, focaccia, bagels, and signature items like French toast with banana and chocolate or pancakes with pistachio. The brunch and breakfast offerings include a set menu, featuring options such as scrambled eggs with avocado, bacon, and tomato pulp, or French toast. Accompanied by sides like chips or salad, these dishes combine rich flavors and a cozy atmosphere, further enhanced by the café’s partnership with local suppliers like Flor da Selva for coffee.

Note that the café also welcomes pop-ups every month, inviting new culinary experiences from local restaurants and brands. This dynamic model aims to bring more people to Marvila, creating a destination that encourages community, creativity, and a shared appreciation for good food. The goal is to transform the area into a lively hub with easy parking and a vibrant weekend crowd, welcoming both residents and visitors alike.

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