Portuguese textile and ceramics sectors face rising energy costs

Portuguese textile and ceramics industries are facing severe pressure due to rising energy costs, prompting calls for government intervention. Ricardo Silva, president of the Portuguese Textile and Clothing Association (ATP), stated that energy-intensive segments such as spinning, dyeing, and printing may need to increase B2B prices by approximately 30% to maintain profitability. This increase could eventually result in a 15% rise in the final price of consumer goods like clothing and home textiles.

In the ceramics sector, APICER reported that gas prices rising from 32 to 80 euros per MWh represents a 150% increase in costs. Industry leaders are requesting the return of support mechanisms similar to ‘Apoiar Gás,’ which was implemented during the energy crisis triggered by the war in Ukraine. The ATP warned that some factories are already considering closure, noting that energy costs have tripled compared to levels seen eighteen months ago. While half of the textile companies are protected by fixed-rate contracts, the remaining half remains exposed to volatile market prices.