1. Family of Odair Moniz Files Complaint Against PSP for Abuse of Power

The family of Odair Moniz, killed by a police officer a month ago, filed a complaint against the Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP) for abuse of power, following what they describe as a police invasion into a grieving home. The incident, which occurred days after Moniz’s death, is said to have caused psychological and material harm. The complaint, alleging crimes of abuse of power, damage, and violation of domicile, targets both the PSP General Command and unknown officers involved.

Moniz, a 43-year-old Cape Verdean citizen, was shot in the Cova da Moura neighborhood, leading to protests across Lisbon’s Metropolitan Area. According to the official version, Moniz fled after spotting a police vehicle and was shot while allegedly resisting arrest and attempting to use a knife. Following the incident, riots ensued, with numerous arrests and injuries, including a bus driver. The family, supported by SOS Racismo and Vida Justa, contest the police narrative, demanding a fair investigation into the case and highlighting the broader issue of police impunity.

While inquiries are ongoing, the officer involved remains on medical leave and has yet to testify before the Public Prosecutor’s Office. The family has launched an online fundraising campaign, raising over 29,000 euros to support their efforts. The complaint was formally presented on Thursday, with the family’s lawyer confirming the legal action during an event in Lisbon, further intensifying the calls for justice and accountability.

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2. 8000 Books Will be Offered at Two Lisbon Train Stations

On November 29, between 10am and 5pm, the Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas (FCSH) of the Universidade Nova de Lisboa will distribute 8000 books for free at the Entrecampos and Rossio train stations. This is part of the third edition of the “Ler é Viajar, Viaje com a NOVA FCSH” initiative. Aimed at promoting literacy, the event offers a selection of books in areas like political science, communication, sociology, international relations, and languages, including titles such as Judaísmo no Feminino by Maria Garcia and Cibercultura e Ficção.

The distribution will take place near the ticket offices at Entrecampos and near the elevators at Rossio, with additional reading materials like international relations magazines covering topics such as Biden’s foreign policy and Portugal’s role in NATO. The project, in collaboration with CP and Infraestruturas de Portugal, aims to merge “the pleasure of traveling” with knowledge-sharing and transform train stations into spaces of cultural and educational engagement, as emphasized by Rui Pedro Julião, the initiative’s coordinator.

In past editions held in May and November 2023, the initiative gave away 6000 books in Lisbon and Évora, receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from the public. The success far exceeded expectations, with so much demand that extra copies had to be brought from the university. This initiative exemplifies the university’s commitment to giving back to the community, promoting public access to scientific and academic publications.

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3. Lisbon’s Cine Society to Show Popular Christmas Movies in Penha de França

From December 12 to 22, the coworking and event space, Impact HUB Lisbon, located in Penha de França, will transform into a temporary movie theater to host Cine Society’s Christmas movie series. This initiative, which in warmer months takes place in various outdoor locations around the city, is now bringing the stars of the screen inside.

The selected films are well-known, and despite the oldest being released in 1990, they are timeless Christmas classics. Among them is Home Alone, the film that made Macaulay Culkin famous as young Kevin, who is left behind by his family and must fend off two bumbling burglars. This film will be shown twice, on December 14th and 18th, alongside Love Actually (2003), the popular romantic comedy set during Christmas that follows multiple characters, one played by Portuguese actress Lúcia Moniz, with a cast including Hugh Grant and Emma Thompson. It will be screened on December 16th and 22nd.

There will also be a screening of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992), as well as The Holiday (2006), How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000), Elf (2003), Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001), The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993), and Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001), the first film in the series adapted from J.K. Rowling’s books. Each session begins with live music, and food and drinks, including beer and mulled wine, will also be available. Attendees will also receive a blanket and warm popcorn. The full program and ticket information can be found on the Cine Society website.

Where? Impact HUB Lisbon (Rua Neves Ferreira 13, Penha de França).

When? December 12 to 22, at 7pm.

How much? 14.50 euros per ticket.

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4. Book Market at Marquês de Fronteira Palace in Lisbon

In December, the Palácio Marquês de Fronteira will host the second edition of “Há Livros no Palácio,” a free-entry book market. Scheduled for December 7th and 8th, the event will feature five bookshops: Snob, Tigre de Papel, Livraria da Lapa, Leituria, and De A a Zola. Visitors will find a diverse selection of new and second-hand books, including fiction, poetry, biographies, essays, history, and children’s books, all available for purchase.

In addition to the books, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the Palácio Marquês de Fronteira, a National Monument. Those who purchase a book will receive a 50% discount on access to the palace gardens that day. The guided tour of the palace’s interior, however, is not included in the promotion. The event is organized by the Fundação das Casas de Fronteira e Alorna in collaboration with the online bookstore De A a Zola, which also hosted the inaugural event in 2022.

This initiative combines literature with the cultural experience of visiting one of Lisbon’s most iconic historic sites, offering both book lovers and visitors a chance to explore the palace’s beautiful grounds while discovering a wide range of reading material.

Where? Largo de São Domingos de Benfica.

When? December 7 and 8, from 10am to 6pm.

How much? Free.

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5. Lisbon’s New Restaurant Where You Sit at the Counter and Eat with Your Hands

At Real Pérola, Olivier da Costa’s “snack-mar” concept at Largo do Rato, seafood and oysters take center stage. Opened just over a month ago, the restaurant offers a casual dining experience where patrons can enjoy fresh oysters from the Algarve, Sado, Aveiro, and France, alongside dishes like pica-pau, Olivier’s bife, and marisco rice. Olivier, drawing from both Portuguese and French influences, creates a relaxed atmosphere with a bar and counter as the focal points. The space, once a historic bakery and part of the Real Fábrica das Sedas complex, now boasts a decor mix of vibrant colors, traditional Portuguese tavern elements, and modern touches by designer Camilla Degli Espoti.

The menu blends international and local flavors: from shrimp and lobster to tartars and Russian salad. Olivier’s vision for the space was inspired by a gap in the city’s food scene for an oyster bar serving quick, quality dishes. The venue reflects a commitment to affordable indulgence—offering not only traditional Portuguese favorites like pica-pau but also French-inspired oysters and seafood. Its menu highlights, such as lobster (140 euros) and tenderloin steak (35 euros), exemplify the blend of simple yet elevated offerings.

Looking ahead, Olivier plans to open three new restaurants in 2025, each offering innovative concepts that promise to fill more gaps in Lisbon’s dining scene. The executive menu, offered during the week, costs 25€ and includes a main course with shrimp, tuna steak, or bitoque. With Real Pérola, Olivier continues to create dining spaces that balance quick meals with gourmet offerings, turning casual dining into a unique culinary experience.

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6. Christie’s Owners: The Exclusive Club of Porta da Frente Owners

Christie’s Owners is an exclusive “club” launched by Porta da Frente/Christie’s, offering members access to luxurious experiences and collaborations with top brands in art, wine, gastronomy, and high-end watchmaking. The program was introduced at a cocktail event at JNCquoi Club, featuring a concert by Cuca Roseta. The idea behind the initiative, according to João Cília, CEO of Porta da Frente, is to offer clients frequent touchpoints beyond real estate transactions, using luxury brands as partners to enhance engagement with high-net-worth individuals, particularly foreign clients looking for networking and integration into Portuguese society.

The club provides members with unique experiences, including workshops with Montblanc and Boutique dos Relógios Plus, and soon, jewelry appraisal workshops. Cília emphasizes the program’s growth potential, aiming for at least one event per month and expanding to larger client groups. The partnership offers value for brands, as they connect with 300 of the firm’s best clients, with high purchasing power, seeking exclusive experiences. This initiative, although local to Portugal, has the potential for international expansion within Christie’s affiliates.

The project is driven by a dedicated team at Porta da Frente, with over 50 luxury brands involved. Members also gain access to off-market properties and a calendar of events. At the launch, guests received a facial treatment from Sisley and a voucher for dining at José Avillez’s restaurant. The success of Christie’s Owners will be measured by client engagement and participation, with Cília highlighting the importance of maintaining strong relationships with clients throughout their journey, ensuring the program’s relevance and long-term success.

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7. 175 Years of Viúva Lamego Brings Contemporary Artists to Lisbon’s National Tile Museum

The Viúva Lamego exhibition at the National Tile Museum, titled “A Perspective of the Present, A Vision of the Future,” celebrates 175 years of history with works from 17 contemporary artists, showcasing the ongoing dialogue between the prestigious factory and modern art. This exhibition, curated by Rosário Salema de Carvalho and Francisco Queiroz, includes new and existing pieces that explore how the iconic azulejo, more than an aesthetic choice, reflects the cultural, social, and economic transformations of Portugal. It highlights the enduring collaboration between the Viúva Lamego factory and artists, architects, and designers, offering a glimpse into the future of ceramic art.

The exhibition features a rich variety of work, from established names like Bela Silva, Hervé Di Rosa, and Adriana Varejão, to emerging talents. Bela Silva’s Batucada de Cor and Di Rosa’s Subaquática showcase the influence of traditional craftsmanship, while Varejão’s Azulejão embraces the tile medium in new ways. Contemporary urban culture is also present, with works by Vhils, Add Fuel, and Noël Fischer, reflecting the modern reinterpretation of the art form. The exhibition also brings forth unique approaches, such as Manuela Pimentel’s illusionary, multi-dimensional designs and Rita João/Estúdio Pedrita’s exploration of mid-20th-century industrial tilemaking.

Gonçalo Conceição, CEO of Viúva Lamego, underscores the company’s continuous connection with artists over the decades, emphasizing that this enduring partnership remains at the heart of its legacy. He celebrates the exhibition’s significance, which not only honors Viúva Lamego’s century-long history but also elevates its role in the cultural landscape of Portuguese ceramics. The showcase serves as a stage for the brand’s influence on both traditional and contemporary art, reflecting the cultural importance of Viúva Lamego in shaping the future of tile art.

Where? Museu Nacional do Azulejo – Rua Madre Deus nº4, Lisboa.

When? Tuesday to Sunday, from 10am to 6pm (until December 29).

How much? 8 euros.

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8. Praça do Beato Hosts the Olive Oil Festival

On November 30th, Praça do Beato hosts the Olive Oil Festival at the Beato Creative Hub in Lisbon, celebrating Portugal’s olive oil culture. The event, with free entry, invites visitors to explore the varieties of olive oil, with tastings (via prior registration), music, and a children’s workshop. Five guest chefs, including Bertílio Gomes and Teresa Colaço, will create dishes using five different olive oil varieties, while Rui Pascoalinho from Pascoalini will feature artisanal ice creams with olive oil.

The festival will also include technical tastings starting at 12pm, led by journalist Edgardo Pacheco and Francisco Pavão, and priced at €15 per participant. A free debate, “Education and Brand Culture in Olive Oil,” will take place at 3pm, featuring industry leaders such as Carlos Coelho and local producers. Discussions will center on olive oil varieties, categories, and the Denominations of Origin Protected in Portugal.

For younger attendees, the Magnolia Method will conduct a creative workshop on olives and olive oil, engaging children from 1pm to 4pm. The event wraps up with DJ Fabz spinning music from 7pm to 11pm, offering a complete cultural and culinary experience, from educational insights to delicious tastings and lively entertainment.

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9. Greenvolt’s Exit from the Stock Exchange Marks Largest Exodus of Companies from Euronext Lisbon Since 2018

Euronext Lisbon is experiencing a significant exodus of companies in 2024, with Greenvolt’s departure marking the largest since 2018. Alongside Greenvolt, Reditus, Lisgráfica, and Inapa have left the stock market, each exit reflecting the company’s unique challenges. Reditus was delisted due to repeated failures in market disclosure, while Lisgráfica’s exit was driven by high listing costs and economic difficulties. Inapa, a paper distributor, lost nearly 95% of its value before entering insolvency proceedings. Greenvolt’s exit followed a mandatory acquisition by KKR, consolidating 97.6% of the company.

Despite the PSI index’s 4.3% return, the broader market has faced losses, with the PSI general index down by 10% in 2024. Liquidity remains a persistent issue, hindering both large companies and new market entrants. Euronext Lisbon’s struggle to attract and retain companies is evident, with recent listings, like Atrium Bire and Vila dos Números, failing to trade even a single share this year. The secondary market, Euronext Access Lisbon, has not delivered on its promise to provide greater access for small and medium-sized companies, showing minimal trading volume and limited visibility.

Looking ahead, 2025 could offer some relief for Euronext Lisbon, with potential major listings, including Fidelidade and Novo Banco, on the horizon. However, the national stock market’s structural challenges remain, including a lack of investment culture, preference for bank financing, and regulatory complexity. To address these, Euronext Lisbon and Portuguese regulators must simplify listing processes, incentivize tax benefits, and enhance financial education to create a more attractive ecosystem for investors and businesses alike.

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10. EMEL Updates Prices in Lisbon. Some Parking Fees Are Reduced, but Others Rise by Over 30%

Lisbon’s Municipal Parking Company (EMEL) is updating the monthly subscription prices for residents using its managed closed parking lots. While some prices will decrease, others will see significant increases, including a case where a resident’s monthly fee will rise by 32%. An email communication received by a resident of Campo de Ourique, which was accessed by ECO/Local Online, clearly indicates an increase in this case, from 35 euros to 46.3 euros per month, representing a 32% hike. This increase is expected to affect many residents with a parking permit in over two-thirds of EMEL’s parking lots.

However, the Lisbon City Hall, which oversees EMEL, clarified to ECO/Local Online that “there will be no price increase, but rather a downward revision of prices at some parking lots.” For example, residents in Rego and Chão do Loureiro, who currently pay 80 euros a month, will see a 42% reduction, saving 33.7 euros monthly. Starting in 2025, the current 24-hour resident pass will be replaced by the R24 pass, a new version designed exclusively for Lisbon residents, which allows parking in an EMEL lot in their neighborhood.

In the case of residents who already have a 24-hour resident pass with a parking sticker, the monthly fee will be adjusted to 46.3 euros, and the pass will be valid for a full month instead of the current 30 days. The Lisbon City Hall counters EMEL’s communication by stating that no Lisbon resident will end up paying more for their resident pass. The City Hall also notes that residents currently paying more than 46.3 euros will pay only the new fee. The price adjustment aims to standardize the fees across EMEL’s parking lots, with some areas seeing reductions of nearly 50%, while new subscribers will pay the uniform price of 46.3 euros, representing an increase for some parks with previously lower fees.

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1. Immigrant Influx to Portugal Increased by 95% in Just Two Years

The National Statistics Institute (INE) released demographic statistics for 2023 on Friday, showing that the resident population rose to 10.64 million people, a 1.16% increase driven by immigration. Excluding migration flows, which account for the permanent entry and exit of people, the resident population actually decreased by 0.31%. Meanwhile, the migration growth rate increased by 1.47%.

The number of permanent immigrants increased by 13.3% compared to 2022, reaching 189,367 people. This figure represents a 95% increase over 2021. Compared to the 36,849 permanent immigrants in 2015, the first year in the period considered by the official statistics agency and a time when Portugal began its recovery after the financial assistance program (troika), immigration surged by 513%. Regarding permanent emigration, the gradual decline observed from 2015 to 2021 (from 40,377 to 25,079 people) reversed in 2022 and continued to rise in 2023, reaching 33,666 people. With these migration flows, the balance was positive for the seventh consecutive year, increasing from 136,144 people to 155,701 in 2023.

Note that, apart from the data on migration, the INE data also show a continued aging population between 2015 and 2023, with women having an average age of 48.6 years and men 45.4 years. In 2022, these figures were 48.4 and 45.4 years, respectively. In terms of mortality, figures from the first two years of the pandemic have already been reversed, but the 118,295 deaths recorded in 2023 (-4.9% compared to 2022) are still above the numbers between 2015 and 2019, when there was a peak of 113,051 in 2018. The infant mortality rate also dropped by one-tenth to 2.5%, a figure lower than in 2020 and 2021 (pandemic years).

Read more from our source here.

2. Brazil’s Largest Criminal Organization Suspected of Using Portuguese Football Clubs to Launder Money

The PCC (First Command of the Capital), Brazil’s largest criminal organization, is suspected of laundering money in Portugal through football clubs. Over the past year, businessmen linked to the PCC attempted to acquire Varzim, Vilaverdense, and Felgueiras, ultimately settling on Fafe. Ulisses de Souza Jorge, an agent for Éder Militão, was a central figure in these negotiations, leveraging connections with key Portuguese sports figures, including Pinto da Costa and his son. Reports indicate that these businessmen also proposed millions of euros for stakes in these clubs, mirroring the methods used in Brazil.

The PCC operates in Portugal with a level of internal organization similar to that in Brazil. They have established a disciplinary sector, functioning as a tribunal to decide on penalties and death sentences for non-compliant members. This network is structured to expand within the prison system, where recruitment is ongoing, both in male and female prisons. Lincoln Gakiya, a Brazilian prosecutor, warns that Portugal’s prison system is ill-prepared for this type of organized crime, which can easily multiply from within.

Portugal’s role as a gateway for drug trafficking into Europe is becoming more evident, with the PCC controlling key ports such as Lisbon and Sines. These ports are integral to the unloading, storage, and distribution of narcotics to other European countries. SIS (Intelligence and Security Services) reports that the PCC has an extensive presence in Portugal, with around 1,000 members involved in these operations, contributing to Portugal’s strategic importance in the broader European drug trade.

Read more from our source here.

3. Government’s Mega Security Campaign Seen as “Gross Violation of the Rule of Law”

The mega-campaign Portugal Sempre Seguro, coordinated by the government, is a six-week operation designed to increase inspection and prevention actions across the country. Criticized by the PS and BE, the initiative has been called a “gross violation of the rule of law” and a propaganda operation. Deputy Isabel Moreira condemned the campaign, claiming the government cannot order the police based on feelings of insecurity, emphasizing the importance of proportionality and necessity. The Socialist Party leader, Alexandra Leitão, criticized the approach, proposing instead community projects and neighborhood policing, aiming to avoid a repressive logic.

In response, Mariana Mortágua, leader of the Left Bloc, described the campaign as a provocation, accusing the government of using state resources for media operations that manipulate the perception of security. She condemned the lack of technical criteria and the irresponsibility behind these operations, asserting that the campaign represented a combination of incompetence and insensitivity. Isabel Moreira further argued that this was a political operation, one that “instrumentalizes the police,” challenging its acceptability in a democratic society.

The government’s security campaign, launched on November 4 and extending until mid-December, has already led to the arrest of 980 people in its first week, a 41% increase compared to last year. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MAI), the focus is on tackling violent crime, drug trafficking, and illegal immigration, with multiforce teams from agencies like GNR, PSP, and Judicial Police collaborating on the operation. The campaign seeks to reinforce security through visible actions, coordinated across various state bodies, though the MAI maintains that these actions are part of the forces’ normal activities, with execution left to the discretion of the involved services.

Read more from our source here.

4. A Christmas Market is Coming to São Vicente (Feira da Ladra)

From December 19th to 22nd, the Feira da Ladra area will host a Christmas market, with everything you’d expect: stalls, workshops, a comedy night, and an “enchanted forest”. Slowly but surely, the Christmas calendar is taking shape. In Campo de Santa Clara, the season officially kicks off on December 19th with the opening of the São Vicente Christmas Market. Centered around the Santa Clara Market, the event will feature several stalls, workshops, Christmas carols, a comedy night, and a charity initiative. All activities are free of charge.

Outside the market walls, one of the most anticipated attractions, announced by the São Vicente Parish Council, is the Enchanted Forest, located in Jardim Botto Machado. Over the course of four days, this space, designed for children, will offer artificial snow, children’s theater performances, storytelling sessions, crafts, face painting, and a Santa Claus house. The area will be open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Also free, but with mandatory prior registration, is the workshop schedule. There are three workshops scheduled for December 19th at 11:00 AM. Available options include cookie dough and brownie cakes, embroidery with Maria Moon, and natural honey soap making.

On the first two days, expect an appropriate soundtrack, with performances from the Staccato Choir and the Coro Menor. Inside the Santa Clara Market, from December 20th onwards, there will also be a market featuring over 40 local entrepreneurs, artists, and creatives, running from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On December 19th, the São Vicente Comedy Club will take place at 9:30 PM. The show will be hosted by Rui Mirama, with special guests Diego Baro, Marcos Bilro, and Miguel Neves. Note that throughout the four days of the event, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, a charity campaign will be held in the form of a food drive for CASA – Center for Homeless Support, collecting non-perishable food items.

Where? Mercado de Santa Clara Market and Botto Machado Garden (São Vicente).

When? December 19 to 22.

How much? Free.

Read more from our source here.

5. It’s Possible to Live in the Heart of Lisbon in a Historic Building

Who doesn’t dream of living in the city center, in an apartment full of light and surrounded by restaurants, cafés, schools, and pharmacies, all within a five-minute walk? Even better if it’s in a historic building with significant heritage value, renovated and expanded with the comfort and well-being of its occupants in mind. No need to look further: this home exists, and you can already reserve yours.

Located in the Avenidas Novas area, the Bombarda 54 development perfectly fits the concept of the “10-minute city,” providing access to neighborhood life and local shops without needing a car. Not only is the location incredibly central, but the building – currently undergoing rehabilitation and expansion – successfully blends the architectural elements of a 1920s building with elegance and period details, such as noble environments, high ceilings adorned with stucco details, while also offering the comfort of contemporary living.

Designed by the architecture studio Tiago R. Correia Arquitetos, Bombarda 54 offers 14 luxurious apartments with layouts of T2 (2-bedroom) (12 units) and T1 (1-bedroom) (2 units), ranging in size from 79 to 130 square meters, scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2026. Portugal Sotheby’s International Realty is exclusively responsible for marketing these apartments, with prices starting at €650,000, and is already accepting offers. According to the source, four units were reserved within the first hours of availability. Whether for living or investment, if you’re interested, it’s best to act fast.

Read more from our source here.

6. Portugal among Debt Reduction Champions in the Eurozone

Portugal is one of the top three countries in the Eurozone for reducing its public debt ratio. The European Commission’s forecasts predict a drop from 95.7% in 2024 to 90.5% in 2026, a 5.2 percentage point decrease. This places Portugal alongside Greece and Cyprus as champions of debt reduction, while the Eurozone average will increase slightly to 90% in 2026. Meanwhile, Portugal’s debt remains lower than in 2019, a rare accomplishment among EU countries.

The European Commission forecasts that Greece, Cyprus, and Portugal will see significant reductions in debt ratios, with Greece leading at -10.4 pp. However, some countries like Lithuania, Ireland, and France are projected to see increases, notably Lithuania with a +6.3 pp rise. Brussels predicts that, by 2026, most EU countries will have reduced their debt ratios compared to 2020, with some like Belgium, Spain, and Italy still above 100% of GDP. Portugal’s 44 percentage point reduction is among the largest in the EU.

The growth in revenues relative to GDP is expected to help reduce the EU deficit in 2024, with revenues growing by 0.5 pp and expenditures increasing by only 0.2 pp. Brussels also forecasts that ten EU member states will have a deficit over 3% of GDP in 2024, with some variation in 2025. By 2026, most EU countries, including Portugal, will have fiscal positions better than in 2019, with Cyprus, Ireland, Portugal, and Spain standing out for their improved financial outlook.

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7. Portugal’s Low-Cost Operators Respond to Digi’s Market Entry

Digi, which launched in Portugal in November, undercuts competitors with three-month commitments and mobile plans starting at €4. The Romanian brand has limited mobile coverage in metro tunnels and autonomous regions but offers accumulated data and affordable plans. Fixed internet is priced at €15 with TV available for an additional €15, challenging the status quo. Meanwhile, competitors adjust to match with lower prices and shorter commitments, adding TV to stay competitive.

Uzo (Meo), Woo (Nos), and Amigo (Vodafone) are adjusting offerings, lowering prices and cutting commitment periods. Uzo now offers fiber at €15 for 1 Gbps with six months commitment, plus TV for an additional €15. Amigo, on the other hand, slashes prices, offering mobile plans from €5 and fiber at €15, with a three-month commitment and TV for €7 more, including 60 channels via Android box. The move mirrors Digi’s strategy of three-month contracts but with limited coverage and TV exclusions like SIC channels.

Note that the operator strategies diverge. The low-cost brands respond differently to Digi, with Uzo offering accumulated data on mobile plans and emphasizing TV packages, while Amigo adjusts both pricing and contract terms. Digi’s limited national coverage remains a weak spot, which competitors highlight. As 5G deployment grows in Portugal, Digi’s slow expansion contrasts with Meo, Nos, and Vodafone strengthening their presence, while Woo hints at a future TV service, marking a dynamic shift in the Portuguese telecom market.

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8. New Municipalities Offering Tax Benefits to Startups

There are 14 new municipalities offering tax benefits to startups and scaleups. Coimbra, Braga, and Covilhã are three of them and join what is now a growing list of 22 municipalities in a push for decentralization, territorial cohesion, and regional development. Public policies focused on entrepreneurship aim to attract innovation and talent. Healthy competition between regions fosters local economy growth and positions Portugal as a hub for international startups. The signing of memorandums with Startup Portugal provides tax exemptions, including municipal business tax relief and reduced taxes for businesses and workers.

There are a total of 4,719 startups in Portugal, a 16% increase from last year, with a combined €2.6 billion in revenue. Lisbon (47%) and Porto (15%) lead the way, while coastal districts dominate the startup scene. Though micro-businesses (89%) make up the bulk, the economic impact of startups is significant. One-third of startups engage in international trade, contributing to 58% of their revenue. In contrast, only 11% of the broader business landscape are exporters. Startups outpace the general sector in both growth and job creation.

The growth of startup employment and business revenue far surpasses traditional sectors, with average annual growth of 30% in revenue and 19% in employment between 2020-2023. Startups also pay above-average salaries, averaging €2,000 per employee, 72% higher than the national business average. The push for tax incentives, business development, and attracting international entrepreneurs signals a strong commitment to Portugal’s future as a leader in the startup ecosystem.

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9. The Portuguese ChatGPT

Unbabel, a key partner in the development of Portugal’s ChatGPT, is collaborating with the Portuguese Government, Nova University of Lisbon, and Instituto Superior Técnico to launch the Portuguese Large Language Model (LLM) by early 2025. Built on open-source technology (Tower LLM), it integrates FCCN data to ensure linguistic sovereignty, with Portugal controlling data and avoiding reliance on foreign tech giants. The project’s ambition is clear: preserve cultural identity while meeting national needs. Aiming for public sector efficiency, this initiative seeks to make AI work for Portugal’s future.

EU-backed funding via Euro HPC will inject up to 30 million euros into this cutting-edge initiative, expanding computational capacity significantly. The supercomputer in Barcelona will be central to scaling this project, which will combine national expertise and European resources to create an independent AI ecosystem. This national AI effort is driven by the need for data security and sovereignty, positioning Portugal as a leader in AI innovation with global impact. This model supports the preservation of national data, ensuring that AI technology is homegrown and self-reliant.

Vasco Pedro, founder of Unbabel, emphasizes the importance of a cohesive AI strategy led by the Government, ensuring responsible AI governance. The initiative builds on years of experience in LLM development, with Unbabel’s AI work going back to 2017. Despite challenges, Pedro is confident that the project will meet its ambitious deadline. This involves a strategic move towards creating a national AI hub, overseen by an independent body, with government oversight ensuring long-term success and national control over AI deployment.

Read more from our source here.

10. Portugal Seems to be Behind in AI and Quantum Computing

Ricardo Martinho, President of IBM Portugal, has stated that while the Portuguese government’s recent announcement of a large language model (LLM) during the Web Summit is a “great initiative,” Portugal is somewhat “behind” in the use of technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. He highlighted that Spain, for example, already has an LLM in Spanish, developed through a partnership with IBM, and is also home to a quantum computer in the Basque Country. Martinho expressed that he has been advocating for a quantum computing project in Portugal for over a year, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the potential benefits these technologies could bring to the country.

Martinho also pointed out that, although AI has been a key focus for IBM for over 50 years, Portugal is still lagging behind in AI adoption. He noted that only 40% of the large companies IBM works with globally have AI projects in production, with another 41% still in the experimental phase. In Portugal, he believes the situation is worse, citing higher levels of skepticism and a tendency to implement AI without fully rethinking business models. Instead of integrating AI as a core part of operations, many companies are simply layering it over existing processes, which he argues limits its full potential.

Furthermore, Martinho discussed the importance of security and ethical standards in AI, stating that IBM’s Watsonx solution allows companies to use AI while maintaining data privacy and security. He stressed the necessity of incorporating ethical considerations into AI tools to prevent unethical usage. He also pointed to IBM’s commitment to these principles, claiming that if a customer were ever found to be in violation of copyright laws, IBM would cover the resulting fines. According to Martinho, the future of AI depends not only on technological innovation but also on the responsible and ethical development and usage of these tools.

Read more from our source here.