Brazil‑Portugal workforce shortage

A ManpowerGroup survey released in early August 2026 highlighted a severe talent gap in Brazil and Portugal’s industrial sectors. In Brazil, 80 % of employers reported difficulty finding qualified workers, while Portugal saw 82 % of firms with unfilled vacancies, especially in machinery, refrigeration, electric motors, hydraulics and automation. The shortage was linked to rapid technological change, evolving job profiles and limited internship opportunities, with only about 1.2 million of Brazil’s 20 million working‑age students participating in formal programmes.

Within hours, a separate report from the International Road Transport Union revealed that Brazil’s logistics network was being strained by a structural shortage of truck drivers. An 11 % driver deficit, matching the global average, was compounded by an aging workforce, low wages, demanding conditions and strict regulations. The shortfall was most acute on key freight corridors and in specialist transport, leading to freight delays, higher costs and reduced export competitiveness. Stakeholders called for policy reforms, improved training and efforts to attract younger drivers and women.

Together, the snapshots illustrate a broader pattern of labor scarcity across Brazil’s economy, affecting both skilled industrial roles and essential transport functions, and prompting calls for education, training and regulatory changes to mitigate the impact.