Portugal 2030

January 2021

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Strategies and Action Plans

Portugal 2030 is a strategic framework designed to propel Portugal towards sustainable development and greater competitiveness on the European and global stage. This initiative, spanning from 2021 to 2027, seeks to address various socioeconomic and environmental challenges through targeted programs and significant financial investments. It is funded primarily by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), the Cohesion Fund (CF), and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF).

The development and implementation of Portugal 2030 are carried out in close partnership with multiple stakeholders, including national and regional governments, private sector entities, academic institutions, and civil society organisations. This collaborative approach ensures that the strategic objectives align with both local needs and broader EU priorities, fostering a more inclusive, innovative, and sustainable future for Portugal.

Strategic Objectives

  1. A More Competitive and Intelligent Europe
    • Innovation and Digital Transformation: Programs like the Regional Programs of the North, Center, Alentejo, Lisbon, Algarve, Azores, and Madeira are funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The focus is on boosting research and development (R&D) expenditure, improving cooperation within the National Scientific and Technological System, and enhancing the economic value of scientific potential.
    • Challenges: Addressing obstacles in higher-value production, increasing business investments in R&D, fostering high-tech production, and reducing bureaucratic burdens.
  2. A Greener, Low-Carbon Europe in Transition to Zero Emissions
    • Clean Energy and Environmental Protection: Supported by ERDF, Cohesion Fund (CF), and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund (EMFF), these programs aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030, promote renewable energy, enhance energy efficiency, and mitigate climate change impacts.
    • Focus Areas: Sustainable water management, waste management, circular economy, biodiversity conservation, and urban mobility.
  3. A More Connected Europe
    • Transport and Infrastructure: Investments aim to improve transport infrastructure, fostering territorial cohesion and competitiveness. This includes enhancing rail networks, modernising ports, and developing intermodal transport systems.
    • Key Programs: Action Climate and Sustainability Program, Regional Programs of the North, Center, Alentejo, Azores, and Madeira, primarily funded by the ERDF and CF.
  4. A More Social and Inclusive Europe
    • Employment and Social Inclusion: Programs focus on reducing unemployment, enhancing education and training, and addressing demographic challenges. This includes support for disadvantaged groups and promoting social inclusion.
    • Key Initiatives: The Demography, Qualifications, and Inclusion Program, along with various regional programs, funded by the ERDF and the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+).
  5. A Europe Closer to Citizens
    • Local Development and Citizen Engagement: Emphasises regional and local development, fostering closer ties between citizens and the government. This includes promoting sustainable and integrated development across all territories.
    • Key Programs: Regional programs, particularly focused on urban-rural integration and leveraging local resources.

Policy Coordination and Complementarities

  • Integration with Other Instruments: Portugal 2030 aligns with the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR) and other EU and national instruments. This ensures a cohesive approach to achieving strategic objectives.
  • Sustainability and Inclusivity: Emphasis on the European Green Deal, ensuring no significant harm principle in investments, promoting equal opportunities, and preventing segregation.

Financial Allocation and Monitoring

  • Funding Sources: The initiative is primarily financed through ERDF, ESF+, CF, and EMFF. There are strict guidelines on how funds can be used, especially concerning environmental and social impacts.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: Continuous evaluation ensures alignment with strategic goals, focusing on innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development.