Daily Briefing -- Sunday, 22 March 2026

New Lisbon Airport Confirmed at Alcochete

The government has formally confirmed the Alcochete shooting range as the location for Lisbon's new airport, named Aeroporto Luis de Camoes. While endorsing the site, the government reiterated reservations about ANA's traffic projections. The Environmental Impact Study is due in July, with a final application deadline of January 2028.

Council of Ministers Approves Inheritance and Rental Reforms

New legislation aims to unlock an estimated 550,000 vacant homes by breaking deadlocks in undivided inheritances and streamlining eviction procedures. The reforms introduce succession arbitration outside the courts and an emergency housing fund. Parliamentary negotiations will follow.

Fuel Prices Rising Again Next Week

Data from the Directorate-General for Energy and Geology shows diesel prices are expected to increase by 16 cents per litre and petrol by 9 cents. Regular diesel will hit approximately 2.09 euros per litre, while petrol could reach 1.95 euros. Prices vary by station and region.

Housing Market: Fitch Projects 15% Price Rise in 2026

Global ratings agency Fitch expects Portuguese house prices to climb another 15% this year after an 18% surge in 2025. Limited supply and strong domestic and international demand continue to outpace construction. The Bank of Portugal's strict lending rules are helping prevent reckless borrowing.

CP Railways Heading for Record Profit

Minister Miguel Pinto Luz told Parliament that CP - Comboios de Portugal will post a significant profit, marking a turnaround for the historically loss-making state railway. The minister defended CP's current service quality against opposition criticism.

Tourism Revenue Up 3% in January

Bank of Portugal data shows tourism revenue reached 1.596 billion euros in January 2026, a 3% increase year-on-year. However, the pace of growth has slowed compared to the same period last year. Tourism imports -- spending by Portuguese tourists abroad -- rose 5.7%.

Algarve Named Trusted Brand for Seventh Time

The Algarve has been recognised as Portugal's most trusted tourism region for the seventh time and third consecutive year, according to the Marcas de Confianca 2026 study. The survey of 12,000 households highlighted the region's quality, value for money, and sustainability credentials.

Azores Launch Nature Parks App

The Azores Regional Government has launched a mobile app for the archipelago's natural parks, offering self-guided visits with audio guides and video content. The app, presented at the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre on Faial Island, covers multiple environmental centres across the islands.