Portugal's inflation surge to 3.4% deepens cost-of-living crisis amid political tensions
Portugal’s cost-of-living crisis has deepened as consumer prices jumped to 3.4% in April, up from 2.7% the previous month. The surge—nearly double the eurozone’s monthly increase—has left households under growing financial pressure, despite government efforts to ease the strain. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro admitted the country faces tough economic challenges ahead. He warned against sudden policy shifts in reaction to the slowdown, stressing the need for stability. Yet he also pledged not to ignore the problems, stating the government would not 'bury its head in the sand'.
Opposition leaders have sharply criticised the government’s response. André Ventura, head of the far-right Chega party, described a 'brutal fuel crisis' and accused officials of failing to support people struggling with basic needs. Mariana Leitão, another opposition figure, claimed ministers were disconnected from the reality of rising living costs. Montenegro has signalled that harder times may lie ahead before any pre-planned relief measures take effect. The latest inflation figures show monthly price rises hitting 2%, far outpacing the eurozone average of 1%.
With inflation accelerating and opposition voices growing louder, the government’s next steps will be closely watched. Households continue to face steep cost increases, while officials prepare for what Montenegro called 'worse days ahead' before any policy changes are rolled out.
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