The Portugal Brief -- Daily Briefing, 22 February 2026

Government Approves PTRR Recovery Framework

The Council of Ministers approved the broad outlines of the Portugal Transformacao, Recuperacao e Resiliencia programme on Friday, the government's response to the storm damage that has killed 18 people and displaced hundreds since late January. The final version, including its financial envelope, is expected in early April after a national consultation period. Opposition parties have criticised the plan as lacking concrete measures.

Moderate Housing Price Ceiling Rises to 660,000 Euros

The maximum sale price for a property to qualify as "moderately priced" under the government's housing scheme has climbed to over 660,000 euros, up from 648,000 when first announced. Rents under the programme are capped at 2,300 euros per month. The housing package, which includes a VAT reduction on construction to 6 percent, was approved in Parliament last week with Chega abstaining.

Rent Support Regime Set to Be Revoked

The government is preparing to revoke the extraordinary rent support regime introduced during the cost-of-living crisis. The Secretary of State for Tax Affairs has indicated adjustments to the housing tax package are forthcoming, including extending reduced corporate tax on moderate rents to self-employed landlords.

Porto Metrobus Launches 28 February

Porto's hydrogen-powered metrobus will begin operating next Saturday between Casa da Musica and Praca do Imperio. Metro do Porto has described the initial period as one of "familiarisation and progressive adjustment" as schedules and frequencies are consolidated.

Chikungunya Virus: Portugal Rated High Risk

A UK study has classified Portugal among Europe's highest-risk countries for Chikungunya virus transmission, predicting the mosquito-borne disease could spread for up to six months per year. The tiger mosquito is already established in parts of the country. Health authorities are expanding surveillance programmes.

Diesel Prices to Rise From Monday

Diesel prices are forecast to increase from 23 February, according to fuel price projections based on international market conditions. Drivers are advised to fill up before Monday if possible.

FlixBus Offers 150,000 Discounted Trips

FlixBus is offering 150,000 trips across Portugal at reduced prices — ranging from 1.99 to 2.99 euros depending on distance — between 23 February and 29 March. The initiative is framed as support for mobility and recovery in the wake of Storm Kristin.

250,000 Trees Felled in Sintra Mountains

More than 250,000 trees have been knocked down in the Sintra mountains by successive storms over the past year, far exceeding the initial estimate of 98,000. Of those, 20,000 fell during recent storm events and 230,000 during the Martinho depression. Parques de Sintra is coordinating the cleanup effort.