CCP President advocates for collaborative labor reform in Portugal

Gustavo Paulo Duarte, president of the Confederação do Comércio e Serviços de Portugal (CCP), stated that a labor reform agreement is achievable through social concertation, provided it includes measures that truly interest all parties. He noted that both workers and companies seek improved conditions, suggesting that the previously rejected labor law was not the only possible option.

Duarte criticized the previous negotiation process, describing it as an example of what not to do. He argued that instead of the government presenting a finished law for discussion, all parties should engage in a dialogue to co-create measures. He emphasized that reform should cover all sectors of activity and avoid becoming stuck on sensitive, politicized, or ideological issues.

Additionally, Duarte highlighted that the government's previous reform failed to address specific issues in the transport sector. He also expressed concern regarding the minimum wage, suggesting that the primary challenge is ensuring companies pay more than the legal minimum to support better salaries and economic growth.