“Accelerate the Economy” Programme
The Portuguese Council of Ministers has approved the “Accelerate the Economy” programme – Growth, Competitiveness, Internationalisation, Innovation, and Sustainability. This comprehensive package of 60 fiscal and economic measures is designed to tackle key structural challenges and boost the country’s economic growth.
Developed within the first 100 days of the XXIV Constitutional Government, this initiative reflects extensive consultations with stakeholders, public and private entities, and multiple sectors of the economy. It aims to enhance productivity, innovation, and the international competitiveness of Portuguese businesses through actions focused on scale, capitalisation, financing, talent, and sustainability.
The measures address 20 economic challenges, including internationalisation, reindustrialisation, digitalisation, decarbonisation, and entrepreneurship. Highlights include a gradual reduction of the corporate tax rate (IRC) to 15% by the end of the current legislature, a new 15% minimum tax regime for large groups (aligned with EU directives), and improved VAT schemes to ease cash flow burdens on SMEs.
The programme also reinforces support for startups and SMEs through venture capital initiatives, R&D tax incentives, and dedicated funding for deep tech innovation. Additional initiatives include the “State Pays in 30 Days” plan to ensure faster public payment cycles, and new talent attraction measures under the IFICI+ regime, applying a flat tax rate to high-skilled professionals.
Furthermore, the government aims to promote green and digital transitions, streamline access to EU funds, and support Portugal’s positioning as a hub for sustainable innovation. Strategic sectors like tourism, maritime economy, and defence industries are targeted through specific clusterisation measures, including dedicated funds, fiscal incentives, and structural reforms.
Access the full programme here: https://lnkd.in/gdvwsu38
More details available at: https://lnkd.in/dkUwXnkq
