Portuguese bookstores face unpaid school textbook vouchers

The Portuguese Confederation of Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (CPPME) has denounced the government for failing to pay bookstores and stationery shops for school textbooks provided through the MEGA program.

Although invoicing for vouchers became available on August 17 and many businesses issued invoices immediately, several weeks have passed without payment. The CPPME reports that many companies have fulfilled all requirements, including updated banking information and valid debt-free certificates, yet they have received no funds or explanations for the delay.

The Confederation highlighted that the lack of communication from responsible services is as problematic as the delay itself. Business owners report being redirected to email and waiting weeks without concrete answers. The CPPME noted that smaller bookstores are particularly vulnerable as they lack the financial capacity to indefinitely absorb the costs of acquiring and supplying textbooks without reimbursement. The Confederation has formally requested clarification from the Minister of Education regarding the status of these pending payments.