Secretaria Regional das Finanças, Planeamento e Administração Pública
Regional Government honours commitment to businesses
Regional Government honours commitment to businesses
Secretaria Regional do Turismo, Mobilidade e Infraestruturas
Tourism revenue rises 15% in May, strengthening Azores destination value
Tourism revenue rises 15% in May, strengthening Azores destination value
Secretaria Regional da Juventude, Habitação e Emprego
Over 550 “Azores Book Vouchers” issued, representing investment of more than €55,000
Over 550 “Azores Book Vouchers” issued, representing investment of more than €55,000
Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação
Regional Government warns against abandoning pets during holidays
Regional Government warns against abandoning pets during holidays
Nota de Imprensa
July 1, 2026 Regional Government honours commitment to businesses The Government of the Azores, through the Regional Secretariat for Finance, Planning and Public Administration, has assured Azorean entrepreneurs of its commitment to the timely payment of support under the Employment Maintenance Programme (PME-I and PME-II), the Market Access Programme (AM) and the Support Programme for the Catering and Hospitality Sector (PARH), amongst others. The commitment made to business associations stipulates that support applied for in each quarter must be paid by the end of the following quarter. In this regard, the Regional Government of the Azores has once again complied with the agreed schedule, injecting more than €6 million into the business sector by June 30. “We have established a clear and predictable schedule for Azorean businesses, and we are meeting it,” stated the Regional Secretary for Finance, Planning and Public Administration, Duarte Freitas. Duarte Freitas also assured that the Azorean Government will continue to work in close coordination with business associations, consultants and entrepreneurs, maintaining closer ties and providing ongoing support to respond more effectively to the needs of the regional business community. The Government of the Azores reiterates its determination to continue supporting regional businesses, acknowledging their vital role in the archipelago's economic and social development.
July 1, 2026 Regional Government honours commitment to businesses The Government of the Azores, through the Regional Secretariat for Finance, Planning and Public Administration, has assured Azorean entrepreneurs of its commitment to the timely payment of support under the Employment Maintenance Programme (PME-I and PME-II), the Market Access Programme (AM) and the Support Programme for the Catering and Hospitality Sector (PARH), amongst others. The commitment made to business associations stipulates that support applied for in each quarter must be paid by the end of the following quarter. In this regard, the Regional Government of the Azores has once again complied with the agreed schedule, injecting more than €6 million into the business sector by June 30. “We have established a clear and predictable schedule for Azorean businesses, and we are meeting it,” stated the Regional Secretary for Finance, Planning and Public Administration, Duarte Freitas. Duarte Freitas also assured that the Azorean Government will continue to work in close coordination with business associations, consultants and entrepreneurs, maintaining closer ties and providing ongoing support to respond more effectively to the needs of the regional business community. The Government of the Azores reiterates its determination to continue supporting regional businesses, acknowledging their vital role in the archipelago's economic and social development.
Nota de Imprensa
July 1, 2026 Tourism revenue rises 15% in May, strengthening Azores destination value The Azores registered a 15% increase in tourism revenue in May 2026, according to data now released by the Azores Regional Statistics Service (SREA), confirming the sector’s resilience and the success of the Azorean Government’s strategy to establish the Region as a tourist destination of excellence that is sustainable and generates value. According to the data released, the overall revenue from the tourist accommodation sector reached €24.6 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 15.0%. Accommodation revenue grew by 9.5% compared with the same period last year, totalling €17.9 million. Profitability indicators also point to an increase in tourist demand, with revenue per available room (RevPAR) reaching €96.24 and average daily rate (ADR) standing at €128.59. These results are particularly significant as they demonstrate that the Azores continue to grow in value, consolidating a tourism model that prioritises the quality of the experience, sustainability and the ability to generate greater economic returns for businesses and the regional economy. Against an international backdrop marked by economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and challenges facing the tourism industry on a global scale, the 2.2% decline in overnight stays demonstrates the remarkable resilience of the Azores as a destination. More importantly, the figures show that, despite this slight decrease, the sector still managed to generate more revenue and boost its profitability, reflecting a higher-quality demand from visitors with greater purchasing power. This performance confirms the Azores’ growing reputation as a competitive destination in both the domestic and international markets, capable of attracting visitors who praise authenticity, nature, safety, sustainability and the quality of the regional tourism offer. The confidence of international markets in the Azores’ potential as a tourist destination is also reflected in the growing interest shown by airlines in operating to the Region. Tuesday’s inaugural flight by Austrian Airlines is another clear sign of the destination’s appeal and the international recognition of its ability to attract new tourist flows and diversify its source markets. Tourism continues to play a strategic role in the economic development of the Azores, generating positive impacts across a wide range of sectors, from accommodation, catering and transport to retail, agriculture, fisheries, regional production and services. As such, it contributes to job creation, the revitalisation of the local economy and the maintenance of the local population. In this context, it is also important to highlight the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Regional Government and Turismo de Portugal (national tourism authority) this week. The agreement will deepen collaboration in promoting the destination, enhancing the quality of the tourism offer and showcasing the Region’s distinctive resources and products, thereby boosting the Azores’ competitiveness within the national and international tourism scene. The results now available confirm that the Azores are consolidating a path of sustained growth, based not only on increased demand but also on greater economic value, market diversification and the ongoing improvement of the range of products and services available. This progress has been underpinned by a clear and consistent strategy on the part of the Regional Government. It is based on improving air accessibility, promoting the destination abroad, enhancing tourism infrastructure, upskilling the workforce and committing to a model of sustainable development that reconciles economic growth with the preservation of the archipelago’s natural, environmental and cultural heritage. The May results provide further confirmation that the Azores are establishing themselves as one of the most distinctive, sustainable and highly regarded tourist destinations in the Atlantic, capable of attracting new markets, generating more wealth and creating more opportunities for the Azorean population.
July 1, 2026 Tourism revenue rises 15% in May, strengthening Azores destination value The Azores registered a 15% increase in tourism revenue in May 2026, according to data now released by the Azores Regional Statistics Service (SREA), confirming the sector’s resilience and the success of the Azorean Government’s strategy to establish the Region as a tourist destination of excellence that is sustainable and generates value. According to the data released, the overall revenue from the tourist accommodation sector reached €24.6 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 15.0%. Accommodation revenue grew by 9.5% compared with the same period last year, totalling €17.9 million. Profitability indicators also point to an increase in tourist demand, with revenue per available room (RevPAR) reaching €96.24 and average daily rate (ADR) standing at €128.59. These results are particularly significant as they demonstrate that the Azores continue to grow in value, consolidating a tourism model that prioritises the quality of the experience, sustainability and the ability to generate greater economic returns for businesses and the regional economy. Against an international backdrop marked by economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and challenges facing the tourism industry on a global scale, the 2.2% decline in overnight stays demonstrates the remarkable resilience of the Azores as a destination. More importantly, the figures show that, despite this slight decrease, the sector still managed to generate more revenue and boost its profitability, reflecting a higher-quality demand from visitors with greater purchasing power. This performance confirms the Azores’ growing reputation as a competitive destination in both the domestic and international markets, capable of attracting visitors who praise authenticity, nature, safety, sustainability and the quality of the regional tourism offer. The confidence of international markets in the Azores’ potential as a tourist destination is also reflected in the growing interest shown by airlines in operating to the Region. Tuesday’s inaugural flight by Austrian Airlines is another clear sign of the destination’s appeal and the international recognition of its ability to attract new tourist flows and diversify its source markets. Tourism continues to play a strategic role in the economic development of the Azores, generating positive impacts across a wide range of sectors, from accommodation, catering and transport to retail, agriculture, fisheries, regional production and services. As such, it contributes to job creation, the revitalisation of the local economy and the maintenance of the local population. In this context, it is also important to highlight the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Regional Government and Turismo de Portugal (national tourism authority) this week. The agreement will deepen collaboration in promoting the destination, enhancing the quality of the tourism offer and showcasing the Region’s distinctive resources and products, thereby boosting the Azores’ competitiveness within the national and international tourism scene. The results now available confirm that the Azores are consolidating a path of sustained growth, based not only on increased demand but also on greater economic value, market diversification and the ongoing improvement of the range of products and services available. This progress has been underpinned by a clear and consistent strategy on the part of the Regional Government. It is based on improving air accessibility, promoting the destination abroad, enhancing tourism infrastructure, upskilling the workforce and committing to a model of sustainable development that reconciles economic growth with the preservation of the archipelago’s natural, environmental and cultural heritage. The May results provide further confirmation that the Azores are establishing themselves as one of the most distinctive, sustainable and highly regarded tourist destinations in the Atlantic, capable of attracting new markets, generating more wealth and creating more opportunities for the Azorean population.
Nota de Imprensa
July 1, 2026 Over 550 “Azores Book Vouchers” issued, representing investment of more than €55,000 More than 550 young Azoreans have already benefited or are currently benefiting from the “Azores Book Voucher,” a measure that involves an approved investment of more than €55,000 to encourage reading and help young people develop their skills through books. This initiative was launched in 2024 by the PSD/CDS-PP/PPM coalition government, through the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment, as part of the “Youth +” package. It is aimed at all young people aged 18 who are tax residents and/or natives of the Azores. “Reading remains one of the most powerful tools for personal development. Every book purchased represents a learning opportunity, exposing readers to new ideas and cultural enrichment – factors that are fundamental to building a more informed, participatory and competitive society,” explained Maria João Carreiro. According to the Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, “the figures already reached demonstrate young people’s interest in valuing reading, knowledge and the acquisition of skills, seizing an opportunity created by the Regional Government to invest in their personal and academic development.” Each “Azores Book Voucher,” worth €100, can be used to purchase printed books at the participating bookshops or book retailers. It may be used for multiple purchases at different bookshops and retailers within one year of the date of issue. Applications for the “Azores Book Voucher,” issued by the Regional Directorate for Youth, must be submitted via the Youth Portal at juventude.azores.gov.pt from the day young people turn 18 to the day before their 19th birthday. The “Azores Book Voucher” is issued in digital format; it is personal and non-transferable. The cost of any book(s) purchased using the “Azores Book Voucher” is reimbursed by the Regional Government to bookshops, booksellers and retailers that have joined the initiative and are listed on the Youth Portal. Young people residing on islands without participating entities can purchase books through intermediary entities responsible for digital sales and shipping. Shipping costs are paid directly to the intermediary entities and are not deducted from the balance of the "Azores Book Voucher." The "Azores Book Voucher" is part of the “+Youth” package, an unprecedented initiative in the Region that includes the "Return Home" and "Salary Promotion Measure" programmes.
July 1, 2026 Over 550 “Azores Book Vouchers” issued, representing investment of more than €55,000 More than 550 young Azoreans have already benefited or are currently benefiting from the “Azores Book Voucher,” a measure that involves an approved investment of more than €55,000 to encourage reading and help young people develop their skills through books. This initiative was launched in 2024 by the PSD/CDS-PP/PPM coalition government, through the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment, as part of the “Youth +” package. It is aimed at all young people aged 18 who are tax residents and/or natives of the Azores. “Reading remains one of the most powerful tools for personal development. Every book purchased represents a learning opportunity, exposing readers to new ideas and cultural enrichment – factors that are fundamental to building a more informed, participatory and competitive society,” explained Maria João Carreiro. According to the Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment, “the figures already reached demonstrate young people’s interest in valuing reading, knowledge and the acquisition of skills, seizing an opportunity created by the Regional Government to invest in their personal and academic development.” Each “Azores Book Voucher,” worth €100, can be used to purchase printed books at the participating bookshops or book retailers. It may be used for multiple purchases at different bookshops and retailers within one year of the date of issue. Applications for the “Azores Book Voucher,” issued by the Regional Directorate for Youth, must be submitted via the Youth Portal at juventude.azores.gov.pt from the day young people turn 18 to the day before their 19th birthday. The “Azores Book Voucher” is issued in digital format; it is personal and non-transferable. The cost of any book(s) purchased using the “Azores Book Voucher” is reimbursed by the Regional Government to bookshops, booksellers and retailers that have joined the initiative and are listed on the Youth Portal. Young people residing on islands without participating entities can purchase books through intermediary entities responsible for digital sales and shipping. Shipping costs are paid directly to the intermediary entities and are not deducted from the balance of the "Azores Book Voucher." The "Azores Book Voucher" is part of the “+Youth” package, an unprecedented initiative in the Region that includes the "Return Home" and "Salary Promotion Measure" programmes.
Nota de Imprensa
June 30, 2026 Regional Government warns against abandoning pets during holidays With the holiday season approaching, the Regional Government, through the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food, urges all pet owners to act responsibly and warns them of the consequences of abandoning pets. Abandonment is an act of irresponsibility and cruelty, with serious consequences for pets, the community and the organisations working daily to protect them. Deprived of basic care, these pets face hunger, thirst, disease, road accidents and violence, and are often unable to survive on their own. In addition to the severe suffering caused to pets, this practice contributes to an increase in the number of stray animals. This situation poses risks to public health and road safety, whilst also placing a strain on Official Animal Collection Centres and animal welfare organisations, which carry out exhaustive, day-to-day work to rehabilitate these animals. For the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, the key message is very clear: “Getting a pet is a decision and a lifelong commitment.” The government official emphasised that adopting or acquiring a pet entails an ongoing duty of care, protection and respect that cannot be neglected whilst families are on holiday. “This is not merely a slogan to raise awareness, but an ethical commitment. Pets depend entirely on their owners for food, healthcare, protection and affection. During the holidays, just as at any other time of year, they deserve to continue receiving the care they need. Taking responsibility for pets means finding suitable solutions for their care whenever the family is away,” defended António Ventura. The Regional Secretary pointed out that there are now various options for balancing holidays with animal welfare. Planning allows people to use pet-friendly accommodation and tourist destinations, pet hotels, temporary shelter services, or even support from family and friends. Alongside its awareness-raising efforts, the Regional Government has been promoting campaigns and providing structural support aimed at the electronic identification and neutering of pets. These preventive measures are essential tools for combating abandonment and promoting animal welfare throughout the archipelago.
June 30, 2026 Regional Government warns against abandoning pets during holidays With the holiday season approaching, the Regional Government, through the Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food, urges all pet owners to act responsibly and warns them of the consequences of abandoning pets. Abandonment is an act of irresponsibility and cruelty, with serious consequences for pets, the community and the organisations working daily to protect them. Deprived of basic care, these pets face hunger, thirst, disease, road accidents and violence, and are often unable to survive on their own. In addition to the severe suffering caused to pets, this practice contributes to an increase in the number of stray animals. This situation poses risks to public health and road safety, whilst also placing a strain on Official Animal Collection Centres and animal welfare organisations, which carry out exhaustive, day-to-day work to rehabilitate these animals. For the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, the key message is very clear: “Getting a pet is a decision and a lifelong commitment.” The government official emphasised that adopting or acquiring a pet entails an ongoing duty of care, protection and respect that cannot be neglected whilst families are on holiday. “This is not merely a slogan to raise awareness, but an ethical commitment. Pets depend entirely on their owners for food, healthcare, protection and affection. During the holidays, just as at any other time of year, they deserve to continue receiving the care they need. Taking responsibility for pets means finding suitable solutions for their care whenever the family is away,” defended António Ventura. The Regional Secretary pointed out that there are now various options for balancing holidays with animal welfare. Planning allows people to use pet-friendly accommodation and tourist destinations, pet hotels, temporary shelter services, or even support from family and friends. Alongside its awareness-raising efforts, the Regional Government has been promoting campaigns and providing structural support aimed at the electronic identification and neutering of pets. These preventive measures are essential tools for combating abandonment and promoting animal welfare throughout the archipelago.
Nota de Imprensa
June 30, 2026 Austrian Airlines launched direct route to Ponta Delgada today Austrian Airlines launched a new direct flight today between Vienna, Austria, and Ponta Delgada Airport, which will significantly strengthen the Azores’ international connectivity and open up new prospects for sustainable growth in Azorean tourism. The service is operated by an Airbus A320 with a capacity of 180 passengers, running weekly on Tuesdays. It will continue until September 8, 2026, for a total of 11 weeks. Eleven rotations are scheduled, representing 1,980 additional seats for the archipelago. According to the Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, Berta Cabral, this direct connection with Vienna “represents a very significant milestone for the Azores. For the first time, it opens a direct gateway to the Austrian market, which has high potential and a strong resonance with the Region as a destination offering nature, authenticity and sustainability.” The new route means that Austrian Airlines is now the fourth airline in the Lufthansa Group to operate in the Azores, joining Lufthansa, Edelweiss and Eurowings, thereby clearly consolidating the region’s position in the European aviation landscape. Berta Cabral also highlighted the strategic impact of this integration on strengthening international partnerships, stating: “The fact that four airlines from the Lufthansa Group operate in the Azores demonstrates the destination’s growing appeal and credibility amongst leading European operators. This is the result of consistent efforts to promote the destination abroad and build trust with the sector.” The launch of this route is particularly significant in the context of the Austrian source market. In 2025, Austria was the 11th largest foreign market for the Azores, recording a growth of 24.3% compared with 2024 and a total of 52,261 overnight stays. Until now, there were no direct flights between Austria and the Azores, with journeys typically involving stopovers, mainly in Germany, Switzerland or Lisbon. This is a market with high purchasing power and strong demand for nature-based destinations, sustainability and outdoor experiences. “We are working strategically to diversify markets and attract visitors who value quality, authenticity and sustainability. The Austrian market fits perfectly with this vision, and this new route will enable us to grow in a more balanced and targeted manner,” added the government official. Tourism continues to be one of the main driving forces of the regional economy. According to a study by Ernst & Young (2024), the sector accounts for more than €1.2 billion in Gross Value Added, about 20% of regional GVA, 17% of GDP and 17% of employment. The domestic market remains the main source of visitors, accounting for around 30% of overnight stays, followed by the most significant international markets: Germany, the United States, Spain, France and Canada. For the 2026 IATA summer season, the Azores will be served by 16 airlines, ensuring more than 30 routes and connections to 12 countries in Europe, North America and Africa. Austrian Airlines joins Air Canada and WestJet as new operators compared with 2025. This boost in connectivity falls within the Regional Government's strategy to mitigate seasonality and promote tourism year-round and across all islands. “Greater connectivity means more opportunities for our companies, more jobs and greater territorial cohesion. We will continue to focus on smart accessibility, aligned with sustainability and the promotion of our destination,” concluded Berta Cabral. The Azores have established themselves internationally as a destination of excellence in terms of nature and sustainability, being the first archipelago in the world to be certified with EarthCheck's Gold Level – Level 2 (2025). The destination has also been consistently recognised as the “World’s Best Adventure Tourism Destination” and "Europe’s Best Adventure Tourism Destination" by the World Travel Awards. This new initiative is the result of ongoing and coordinated efforts among the Regional Government, the National Government, Visit Azores, Turismo de Portugal (national tourism authority), airlines and various partners in the sector, with a view to strengthening international promotion, diversifying markets and responding to the challenges of the international context. Under the slogan “Tourism all year round on all islands,” the regional strategy continues to focus on improving the quality, diversifying and ensuring the sustainability of the tourism offer, as well as on improving air and internal transport links.
June 30, 2026 Austrian Airlines launched direct route to Ponta Delgada today Austrian Airlines launched a new direct flight today between Vienna, Austria, and Ponta Delgada Airport, which will significantly strengthen the Azores’ international connectivity and open up new prospects for sustainable growth in Azorean tourism. The service is operated by an Airbus A320 with a capacity of 180 passengers, running weekly on Tuesdays. It will continue until September 8, 2026, for a total of 11 weeks. Eleven rotations are scheduled, representing 1,980 additional seats for the archipelago. According to the Regional Secretary for Tourism, Mobility and Infrastructures, Berta Cabral, this direct connection with Vienna “represents a very significant milestone for the Azores. For the first time, it opens a direct gateway to the Austrian market, which has high potential and a strong resonance with the Region as a destination offering nature, authenticity and sustainability.” The new route means that Austrian Airlines is now the fourth airline in the Lufthansa Group to operate in the Azores, joining Lufthansa, Edelweiss and Eurowings, thereby clearly consolidating the region’s position in the European aviation landscape. Berta Cabral also highlighted the strategic impact of this integration on strengthening international partnerships, stating: “The fact that four airlines from the Lufthansa Group operate in the Azores demonstrates the destination’s growing appeal and credibility amongst leading European operators. This is the result of consistent efforts to promote the destination abroad and build trust with the sector.” The launch of this route is particularly significant in the context of the Austrian source market. In 2025, Austria was the 11th largest foreign market for the Azores, recording a growth of 24.3% compared with 2024 and a total of 52,261 overnight stays. Until now, there were no direct flights between Austria and the Azores, with journeys typically involving stopovers, mainly in Germany, Switzerland or Lisbon. This is a market with high purchasing power and strong demand for nature-based destinations, sustainability and outdoor experiences. “We are working strategically to diversify markets and attract visitors who value quality, authenticity and sustainability. The Austrian market fits perfectly with this vision, and this new route will enable us to grow in a more balanced and targeted manner,” added the government official. Tourism continues to be one of the main driving forces of the regional economy. According to a study by Ernst & Young (2024), the sector accounts for more than €1.2 billion in Gross Value Added, about 20% of regional GVA, 17% of GDP and 17% of employment. The domestic market remains the main source of visitors, accounting for around 30% of overnight stays, followed by the most significant international markets: Germany, the United States, Spain, France and Canada. For the 2026 IATA summer season, the Azores will be served by 16 airlines, ensuring more than 30 routes and connections to 12 countries in Europe, North America and Africa. Austrian Airlines joins Air Canada and WestJet as new operators compared with 2025. This boost in connectivity falls within the Regional Government's strategy to mitigate seasonality and promote tourism year-round and across all islands. “Greater connectivity means more opportunities for our companies, more jobs and greater territorial cohesion. We will continue to focus on smart accessibility, aligned with sustainability and the promotion of our destination,” concluded Berta Cabral. The Azores have established themselves internationally as a destination of excellence in terms of nature and sustainability, being the first archipelago in the world to be certified with EarthCheck's Gold Level – Level 2 (2025). The destination has also been consistently recognised as the “World’s Best Adventure Tourism Destination” and "Europe’s Best Adventure Tourism Destination" by the World Travel Awards. This new initiative is the result of ongoing and coordinated efforts among the Regional Government, the National Government, Visit Azores, Turismo de Portugal (national tourism authority), airlines and various partners in the sector, with a view to strengthening international promotion, diversifying markets and responding to the challenges of the international context. Under the slogan “Tourism all year round on all islands,” the regional strategy continues to focus on improving the quality, diversifying and ensuring the sustainability of the tourism offer, as well as on improving air and internal transport links.
