1. Portuguese Passport Ranks Among the Top 5 Most Valuable in the World

The Portuguese passport is among the world’s top 5 most valuable, securing fifth place in the 2025 Henley Passport Index. The rankings are based on the number of destinations accessible without a visa, with Portugal offering entry to 190 countries. Leading the list is Singapore, whose passport grants access to 195 destinations, followed by Japan with 193, and four European countries—Finland, France, Germany, and Italy—tied in third place, each allowing access to 192 destinations.

Europe dominates the top 20, while Brunei closes the list with 166 countries. In the top 100, countries like Bangladesh, Libya, and the Palestinian Territories are at the bottom, offering access to only 40 destinations. This index highlights the growing value of passports with increasing travel freedom, placing Portugal among the global leaders in passport strength.

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2. Portugal Needs to Stand Out Globally in Two or Three Areas 

The world is on the brink of a new era, marked by population decline, technological advancements like artificial intelligence, and a shift to more bilateral, multipolar relations. Countries like Portugal must find their unique strengths to stand out globally, focusing on areas such as tourism, taxes, and housing. According to Sven Smit, this new world order will be shaped by changing demographics and economic models, with a shift from zero-interest policies to more expensive money. Population decline, especially in countries like South Korea and Europe, is the greatest challenge, and technological automation could help mitigate these issues by increasing productivity, although it comes with significant social implications.

The future will be defined by the need for more energy, especially with the rise of AI and automation. As global connections shift towards regional blocs and bilateral deals, nations must adjust to maintain their competitive edge. Portugal, as a small nation on the periphery of Europe, has the potential to capitalize on its special areas of focus, such as tourism, taxes, and an attractive financial system. Smit emphasizes that a country needs no more than two or three signature areas to succeed and should strategically position itself within global dynamics to stand out.

Smit also points out the importance of deregulation and innovation in Europe, advocating for a more competitive environment that attracts investment. He believes that Europe must prioritize creating favorable conditions for growth by addressing regulatory challenges, such as environmental and sustainability rules, to keep pace with global competitors like the U.S. In this shifting global landscape, Europe must find a balance between regulatory frameworks and the ability to foster economic progress and innovation.

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3. Musk’s SpaceX Launches Portuguese Satellite That Will Map the Oceans

LusoSpace, a pioneering national company, will launch its first satellite, PoSat 2, via SpaceX, marking a milestone in Portugal’s space history. The satellite, named after the first Portuguese satellite, PoSat 1, will form the ATON constellation, focused on mapping oceans and monitoring climate change. This system will provide crucial data on maritime traffic, illegal activities, oil spills, and drifting icebergs, positioning Portugal as a leader in global ocean safety.

The innovative system, described as the “Waze of the oceans,” is expected to transform maritime communication with bidirectional communication between land and ships. LusoSpace introduces VDES technology, allowing for encrypted messages and faster alerts, a significant advancement for the maritime environment. This development is a major step in creating new security services and is set to impact global maritime practices.

Ivo Yves Vieira, CEO of LusoSpace, emphasized that the future of Portugal lies in the sea, while the Portuguese Space Agency, led by Ricardo Conde, congratulated the company for positioning itself as a key player in global communications for ships. LusoSpace’s success will support Portugal’s growing space sector and contribute to turning the nation into a recognized space power, leveraging its engineering, science, and talent.

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4. Portuguese Government Launches National Artificial Intelligence Agenda Roadmap

The Portuguese Government will begin a roadmap to consult various entities and gather contributions for the National Artificial Intelligence Agenda. Minister Margarida Balseiro Lopes highlighted that digital transformation is a challenge not only for the Government but for the entire country, stressing the importance of involving public administration, companies, academia, and the people. The consultation will begin with a group of experts from the agenda’s monitoring committee, chaired by Professor Arlindo Oliveira, and will include in-person sessions in Lisbon, Évora, and Porto.

This initiative aims to listen to the public’s contributions on the country’s stance regarding artificial intelligence. Minister Balseiro Lopes emphasized that the Government’s goal is to use technology to make Portugal more competitive and productive, improving people’s lives. Another significant concern is using data intelligently across various sectors, which is a priority of the Government’s National Smart Territories Strategy, involving nearly 300 municipalities, exceeding initial expectations.

As part of the agenda, the Government announced the development of “Amália,” Portugal’s first large language model (LLM), expected to receive an investment of 5.5 million euros. This initiative, which is part of the National Artificial Intelligence Agenda, represents the Government’s commitment to being a leader in AI adoption. The LLM Amália will be presented in the first quarter of 2025 and aims to boost Portugal’s technological capacity in artificial intelligence.

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5. Continente Invests 6 million Euros in Autonomous Store with Sensei Technology

The Continente store in Leiria, a pilot project, marks the largest autonomous retail space globally, with an investment of 6 million euros. This cutting-edge store spans 1,200 square meters and integrates Sensei’s technology, which enables a smart checkout system. Customers place products in a virtual basket through sensors and AI algorithms, eliminating traditional checkout lines. The hybrid model offers both automated and manual checkout options, including a smart checkout for variable weight products like fruits and vegetables.

The project, financed by the Recovery and Resilience Plan, created 28 jobs, making it the 17th Continente store in the district. The partnership between Continente and Sensei, already established with the “Continente Lab” in Lisbon, aims to transform the shopping experience. The AI-driven system provides real-time data, optimizing operations and increasing efficiency, with a focus on enhancing customer experience rather than just eliminating queues.

Sensei’s technology and its expansion goals also signal a revolution in retail. Following a 15-million-euro investment round, Sensei is set to open 1,000 new stores by 2026, applying its tech in diverse formats beyond autonomous stores. With installations in major companies like Nos, Brisa, and Galp, and its presence in Italy and Brazil, Sensei is reshaping the future of retail, offering a new, tech-driven experience for customers and retailers alike.

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6. Portugal’s Housing Prices Increased 3.7% in the Third Quarter of 2024, the Second Highest in the EU  

The Portuguese real estate market shows no signs of slowing down, with prices rising by 3.7% in the third quarter of 2024, marking the second-largest increase in the EU. Portugal continues to stand out for its sharp rise in housing costs, with prices soaring 113% since 2010, a trend in line with the broader EU housing crisis. Eurostat’s data reveals that in comparison, Bulgaria saw a slightly higher increase (3.9%), and year-on-year, Portugal’s prices accelerated by 9.8%, surpassing previous quarter increases.

Across the EU, housing prices rose by 2.6% in the Eurozone and 3.8% in the EU, reflecting a continuing upward trend in housing costs, with some countries like France, Finland, and Luxembourg seeing annual declines. While most nations reported increases, Bulgaria, Poland, and Hungary led with the highest price hikes, emphasizing the regional disparities in housing affordability. Portugal’s situation mirrors these rising pressures, as the market becomes increasingly difficult for many families to navigate.

Rents also continue their upward trajectory, rising twice as much in Portugal as the EU average, where rents increased by 3.2% in the third quarter of 2024. Portugal’s rent growth since 2010 has been dramatic, with a 44% rise, compared to a 26% increase in the EU. As prices and rents soar, the ongoing housing crisis further limits access to homeownership, pushing many Portuguese families toward inadequate housing solutions.

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7. New Poll For the Presidential Elections Places Gouveia e Melo as the Favorite

Among 19 potential candidates, the current Admiral in the reserve is the one with the highest voting potential (57%). He is followed by António Guterres and Mário Centeno, according to a study by Pitagórica. Although he has not yet announced his candidacy for next year’s presidential elections, Gouveia e Melo leads the Pitagórica poll for TSF/Jornal de Notícias/TVI/CNN Portugal. Among 19 potential candidates, he registered the highest voting potential (57%). In addition to 28% of respondents stating they would “definitely” vote for him and another 29% admitting they “might” vote for him, the name of the current Admiral in the reserve also has the lowest rejection rate (only 39%).

António Guterres — whose mandate as UN Secretary-General lasts until the end of 2026, leaving him out of the race for the Palácio de Belém — recorded similar results: 28% said they would “definitely” vote for him, and 26% “might” vote for him. However, his rejection rate, at 44%, is higher than that of Gouveia e Melo. The former Minister of Finance and current Governor of the Bank of Portugal, Mário Centeno, emerges as the third “protocandidate” with the highest voting potential (43%). Among potential names linked to the PS, he has the best performance (32%) in a hypothetical second-round matchup against Gouveia e Melo (51%), tying with Pedro Passos Coelho and defeating Marques Mendes.

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8. Remote Work Contracts Increase by 30% in One Year

Remote work contracts in Portugal have surged by 30% in just one year, marking the fourth consecutive annual increase. In 2023, over 3,000 permanent contracts specifically included telecommuting provisions, reflecting the continued popularity of this work model even after the pandemic ended. The growth is notable across different sectors, especially in information and communication activities, where permanent telecommuting contracts more than doubled compared to the previous year. The trend also extended to fixed-term and indefinite-term telecommuting contracts, with increases of 85.9% and 160.7%, respectively.

Despite the widespread rise in remote work, not all sectors have adopted it at the same rate. The manufacturing industry and consulting activities saw notable increases, while more traditional sectors like water management and extractive industries recorded minimal contracts. Greater Lisbon accounts for over half of all permanent telecommuting contracts, with the northern region being the second most popular area for this model. This regional disparity highlights how telecommuting remains more prevalent in urban areas with greater access to remote work technologies and opportunities.

The government has acknowledged the need to review the legal framework surrounding telecommuting. The Minister of Labor has already signaled that changes to remote work regulations will be discussed as part of the broader labor law review. With evolving market demands, experts argue for a legal adjustment that balances worker privacy with employer oversight, clarifies accident-related uncertainties, and ensures the framework keeps pace with new work realities.

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9. AICEP’s Contracted Investment in 2024 Exceeds 420 Million Euros

In 2024, AICEP contracted over 420 million euros in investments for Portugal, set to create more than a thousand jobs across diverse sectors, mainly industrial and technology-related. This marks a recovery compared to 2023, with the investments spread regionally across the country. Key areas of investment include semiconductors (150 million euros), the automotive industry, particularly vehicle electrification components (75 million euros), and the pharmaceutical sector (50 million euros). Note that these investments are part of a 10-year commitment, underscoring investor confidence in Portugal’s economy.

The Minister of Economy, Pedro Reis, emphasized that these investments signal a strategic focus on creating qualified jobs in critical sectors. AICEP’s recent contracts reflect a broader trend, following the 3.5 billion euros in investments captured in 2023. Specific investments include major projects by AMKOR Technology (150 million euros for expanding its Vila do Conde plant), West Horse Powertrain Portugal (47 million euros), and Bosch Car Multimedia (26 million euros). These efforts are aimed at boosting Portugal’s technological and industrial capabilities.

The Portuguese government is also focusing on broader economic growth, with several initiatives underway. For example, Stellantis’ electric vehicle production started in Mangualde following a 119 million euro investment, and Bosch’s new lab for sustainable climate solutions received 35 million euros in funding. As the global economic landscape remains uncertain, the Minister of Economy remains optimistic, noting that Portugal’s path to growth and investment remains intact, despite external challenges.

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10. Portuguese President Approves Public Administration Pay Raise

The Portuguese President, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, approved salary increases in Public Administration. The decree establishes increases between 2.15% and 6.9%, with a boost in allowances, impacting the private sector. The diploma, based on an agreement with UGT unions, adjusts base remuneration to €878.41, an increase of 6.9%. One-fifth of public workers will see the base rise, now €8.41 above the minimum wage.

In practice, employees earning between €869.84 and €2620.23 will get fixed raises of €56.58, while those earning above €2674.43 will see a 2.15% minimum increase. For example, a worker earning €3004.40 will receive an additional €64.59. These increases are higher for those with higher salaries, with the total rise linked to income. The measure is officially put into effect, aligning with efforts to enhance public sector wages and benefits.

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1. Portuguese Economic Growth Accelerates in 2025

The Portuguese economy is expected to accelerate in 2025, with a growth rate around 2%, driven by exports, consumption, and investment. Institutions such as the Ministry of Finance, Bank of Portugal, and IMF project growth between 2.1% and 2.4%. However, the external environment poses significant risks, particularly political crises in France and Germany, which could affect trade and economic stability in the Eurozone. The international uncertainty, including geopolitical risks and the trade policies of the U.S., particularly under Trump, also adds to the challenges facing Portugal’s economic trajectory.

Despite the external threats, economists remain optimistic, citing the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR) as a key driver of growth, especially if EU funding is used for productive investment. While there are favorable indicators in inflation, unemployment, and public accounts, the economy still faces structural weaknesses, such as low investment and productivity growth. The expected recovery continues to be slightly below Portugal’s potential, with export challenges and the international trade environment complicating efforts to meet growth targets, especially given the Eurozone’s expected slowdown.

Public finances show a slight surplus or deficit scenario, with the Ministry of Finance aiming to reduce public debt without compromising service quality. The projections for Portugal’s public debt show a declining trend, with estimates varying between 93.3% (Ministry of Finance) and 86.5% (Bank of Portugal). The government’s fiscal stance remains cautious, emphasizing the importance of stable economic growth, while global risks and internal factors like political instability in the EU countries are central concerns for the country’s economic outlook in 2025.

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2. Major Deals in 2025 That Could Give a New Boost to Portuguese M&A 

Portugal’s M&A market in 2025 is expected to experience “moderate optimism” after a disappointing year. While far from the transaction records of 2021-2022, key deals are set to dominate, especially in banking and aviation. The sale of TAP, already underway, is a major deal, with over 12 expressions of interest from national and international players. The government’s plan is to privatize TAP in 2025, and Air France-KLM has reaffirmed interest. In parallel, Novobanco’s early exit from its Contingent Capital Agreement (CCA) is opening doors for an IPO or sale, which is expected to be a focal point for M&A activity in the country.

Investment forecasts show global M&A activity could reach 4 trillion dollars in 2025, driven by a favorable environment of lower regulation and taxes. The biggest M&A drivers next year will be strategic growth and adding new business capabilities. Key sectors such as real estate, healthcare, infrastructure, and retail are expected to see continued activity, particularly in the hotel and retail markets. M&A is anticipated to be spurred by stable political conditions and growing alignment between buyers and sellers, with a focus on industries like renewable energy, technology, and defense.

The Portuguese government is also evaluating state-owned companies for potential privatization, including Caixa Geral de Depósitos, Águas de Portugal, RTP, and Companhia das Lezírias. However, state-owned firms like these are excluded from the current sale assessments. Additionally, other notable transactions in 2025 include the acquisition of Spanish company Cacesa by CTT for 104 million euros and Luz Saúde’s planned deal with C2 MedCapital for more healthcare units. These developments indicate that, despite a challenging global landscape, Portugal’s M&A market remains poised for growth.

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3. Price Hikes Will Continue in 2025: What Will Get More Expensive?

In 2025, rising prices will impact several sectors, from food to utilities. Dairy products like milk, cheese, butter, and cream will see price increases due to supply and demand dynamics. Bread will also rise, as producers face higher costs, with a 5% increase expected. Codfish prices will soar, driven by the ongoing effects of the war in Ukraine and reduced fishing quotas. Additionally, coffee prices will climb, influenced by climate conditions in Brazil and Vietnam, as well as new EU deforestation regulations.

Housing costs will also see a change, with rent increases of up to 2.16% allowed starting January 1st, though if rents haven’t been updated in three years, they could rise by as much as 11.1%. Toll prices will increase by 2.21%, with key routes like Lisbon-Porto and Lisbon-Algarve seeing notable hikes. Public transport fares will also go up, with occasional tickets rising by 2.02%, while monthly passes remain frozen. Telecommunication rates will increase for Meo users but stay the same for Nos customers.

Meanwhile, essential utilities will rise, with water and waste management costs up by as much as 11.4% depending on the provider. The price of electricity is expected to drop, with a 7% reduction for EDP customers. However, gas prices will continue to rise due to increased costs passed onto consumers. Medication prices for drugs under €16 will rise by 2.6%, continuing a trend to offset lower-cost medicine shortages.

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4. Parques de Sintra Plans to Invest 30 Million

Parques de Sintra expects to exceed 45 million euros in revenue in 2024, a 30% increase over 2023. As such, the company plans to invest 30 million in the natural and built heritage sites it manages, including the National Palaces of Pena and Sintra, Sintra’s UNESCO-listed monuments. Note that this is funded by ticket sales, stores, cafeterias, event rentals, as Parques de Sintra doesn’t rely on the state budget.

Between January and November 2024, Parques de Sintra increased its revenues by 29%, with a goal of reinvesting in heritage preservation. The new pricing structure, defined in 2024, came to include a 15% discount for advance ticket purchases with date reservation. This strategy helped manage visitor flow and reduce pressure at sites like the Palácio da Pena, limiting daily visitors to 5,100 across 17 time slots.

Additionally, residents of Portugal now benefit from free entry to monuments about 60 days per year. The digital transformation has optimized operations, boosting efficiency and new revenue sources. Over the last decade, Parques de Sintra has had 25 million visitors and invested 40 million euros in restoration and maintenance.

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5. Social Security Assures That it is Possible to Hire Immigrants, Even Without a NISS

Social Security clarified that companies can sign work contracts with immigrants even if they have not been assigned a Social Security Identification Number (NISS). The essential element for assigning a NISS to a foreign citizen is the work contract itself, and it is not necessary for the NISS to be included in the contract. Employers do not need to wait for the worker to have a NISS before finalizing the contract.

Once the NISS is assigned, employers must report the employment relationship through the Social Security Direct platform and regularize their contribution obligations, paying any overdue contributions. Regularizing the situation is crucial to ensuring access to social security rights and benefits, contributing to both worker protection and system sustainability.

This clarification addresses ongoing issues in Portugal regarding immigration and the labor market. With a shortage of domestic workers, companies have increasingly turned to immigrants, but confusion remains about documentation. Many immigrants had previously struggled with documentation due to the NISS requirement, which, without residence authorization, prevented the validity of work contracts.

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6. Lack of Regulation Prevents Bank of Portugal from Evaluating Crypto Asset Service Requests

The Bank of Portugal announced that it is no longer authorized to receive and assess applications for crypto asset services due to the absence of a national regulation to implement the MiCA Regulation. This regulation, which came into effect at the end of 2024, requires authorization from a designated authority for crypto asset services within the European Union. Without the national regulation, the Bank of Portugal is unable to act as the competent authority for granting these authorizations.

The Bank also warns that, until the national regulation is published, the competent authorities for the authorization and supervision of crypto asset service providers remain undefined, along with the application of the transitional regime. The lack of this regulation leaves critical aspects of the crypto assets framework unresolved.

However, entities already registered with the Bank of Portugal, and authorized to provide virtual asset services, can continue operations during the transitional period, as long as they comply with national laws. These entities are allowed to carry out their activities, but those who have not yet started are prohibited from doing so under the transitional regime. Only one entity currently falls into this category.

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7. What Will the New Ocean Campus Look Like?

The plan for the Campus do Mar involves the requalification of the riverfront between Pedrouços and Cruz Quebrada, passing through Algés and Dafundo, to create a vibrant area combining research, business, and public space. This ambitious project, first proposed in 2017, aims to transform a ghost land into a dynamic hub, with private and public investment totaling 300 million euros. The goal is to establish a new centrality for Greater Lisbon, including research centers, a marina, housing, and requalified public spaces. Architect João Pedro Falcão de Campos emphasizes that the design should avoid the construction of isolated buildings, instead creating a unified structure, with an internal avenue and a reconfigured coastal road for more pedestrian-friendly spaces.

The vision includes a blue economy hub, with proximity to the Champalimaud Foundation and a focus on neuroscience, AI, and climate change impacts. At the same time, the plan includes space for fishermen and business “unicorns of the sea”, which is in line with Lisbon’s goal of becoming a business center focused on the sea and blue economy. Despite challenges, including financial doubts and environmental concerns about flood risks, Falcão de Campos remains confident that the project will move forward. He envisions a balance between economic growth, sustainability, and ecological responsibility, respecting flood protection standards and creating permeable spaces.

Falcão de Campos warns against the area becoming just a tourist destination. He stresses the need for diverse uses and investments in public transport to ensure the space is not overloaded and remains sustainable. The proposed requalification includes a leveled land between the Algés and Jamor rivers, with a focus on creating spaces for living, working, and leisure. The project also aims to avoid overburdening the site and ensuring it retains its unique identity, balancing urban development and natural preservation.

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8. Coimbra Railway Station to Close After 160 Years

On January 12, the Coimbra-A railway station will close after 160 years, as confirmed by Metro Mondego. The station, which has been a key hub for nearly 50 daily trains traveling just three minutes along the Mondego river to Coimbra B, will cease operations as part of the transition to the Mondego Mobility System. This new system, which will connect the city center to the hospital and the Lousã branch to Serpins, will replace the current railway link, marking the end of an era for the riverside railway connection.

Despite efforts by advocates of the “new station,” including the Civic Movement for the New Station, the closure remains set for January 12. Luís Neto, head of the movement, criticized the lack of response from infrastructure ministers, as well as the decision not to take the matter to the plenary for debate in Parliament. While there was some discussion at the municipal level, no significant support materialized to prevent the closure, leaving only the transition to alternative transport solutions.

Metro Mondego confirmed that a free bus service will temporarily connect Coimbra’s two stations, ensuring smooth passenger transitions until the full launch of the metrobus system. This new system, offering more than 50 daily departures and a frequency of up to 12 buses per hour, is expected to start by the end of the year. Prime Minister António Costa has stated that the metrobus solution will better serve the region, with more frequent transport and a system that integrates smoothly into Coimbra’s urban fabric, linking the city to nearby municipalities.

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9. People Under 25 Will Pay Half Price at Specific Theaters in Lisbon and Porto

With the arrival of the new year, young people will have a 50% discount on tickets for performances at theaters in Lisbon and Porto. The age limit to benefit from the measure, which came into effect on Wednesday, January 1st, is 25 years.

The “Acesso Teatro 50%” measure includes the artistic programs of the National Theatre of São Carlos and the National Theatre D. Maria II, both of which, being closed for renovation, are presenting performances outside their venues in Lisbon and other parts of the country, as well as the Camões Theatre, home of the National Ballet Company (CNB). In Porto, the measure extends to the National Theatre São João.

Approved by the Council of Ministers in October 2024, the “Acesso Teatro 50%” measure aims to “stimulate and facilitate access to the programs and cultural goods of the State,” similar to the measure offering 52 days of free access to museums, monuments, and palaces, as stated in a press release from the Ministry of Culture.

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10. On Epiphany, We Will Hear Janeiras Songs in Downtown Lisbon

On Monday, January 6th, the streets and shops of Baixa and Chiado will once again be filled with music with the return of the traditional Janeiras songs. This event, promoted by the Baixa Pombalina Revitalization Association (ADBP), aims to celebrate Epiphany and will feature the Beira Serra Singing Group and the Original Bandalheira Band, who will perform traditional religious songs.

The musical procession will begin at 10:30 AM and continue until 6:00 PM. During this time, the participating groups will visit various shops that have joined the initiative, with performances that promise to liven up the local commerce. Additionally, there will be a symbolic reenactment of the arrival of the three wise men: Baltazar, Gaspar, and Belchior.

“We believe that initiatives like these are essential to give visibility to local commerce and strengthen its role in promoting culture and preserving Portuguese traditions,” said the president of ADBP, Manuel Lopes. “The Christmas season celebration in downtown Lisbon has already become a staple on the city’s festival calendar, and we are determined to innovate and bring even more ambitious proposals in the coming years,” he added in the same note.

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