Socialist Party questions exclusion of Algarve from new business areas

The Socialist Party (PS) parliamentary group has formally questioned the Portuguese government regarding the selection criteria for six new strategic business areas intended to attract major investments. The deputies directed their inquiries to the Minister of Economy and Territorial Cohesion, seeking clarity on the technical, environmental, logistical, and infrastructural requirements for candidate territories.

A primary point of contention is the exclusion of the Algarve region from the project. The government's current plan includes two areas in the North, two in the Center, one in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area, and one in the Alentejo interior. The PS has requested an objective explanation for why the Algarve was not included, noting the project's importance for national economic competitiveness and territorial cohesion.

Additionally, the parliamentary group is seeking information on the role of Regional Coordination and Development Commissions (CCDR), the involvement of municipalities and intermunicipal communities, and the specific financing model for these new areas. They have also called for transparency regarding the selection timeline and the mechanisms used to ensure equality between territories.