A widespread sense of economic apprehension is gripping Portugal as the geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran continue to impact the cost of living. A recent barometer study conducted by Aximage indicates that 94% of respondents are concerned about rising inflation and fuel prices, with the majority (56%) characterizing their anxiety regarding the cost of living as “very great.”
The conflict, which has been ongoing since late February, is linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, causing a ripple effect on energy prices. This week, the average price of diesel reached 1.97 euros per liter—an increase of 0.37 euros since the onset of the conflict—while gasoline rose to 2.03 euros per liter, 0.25 euros higher than in February.
Did You Know?
While the sentiment of economic concern is felt across the country, it is particularly acute among specific demographics: 61% of respondents in the South and Islands, 60% of those aged 50 to 64, and 63% of individuals in the lowest social class (Class D) report the highest levels of apprehension.
Government Support Under Scrutiny
Beyond the immediate financial pressure, there is significant public dissatisfaction with the government’s response to the crisis. Currently, 77% of those surveyed consider the measures implemented by the executive led by Luís Montenegro to be “insufficient.” This disapproval is particularly high in the Porto Metropolitan Area and the Central region, where it reaches 79%.
The dissatisfaction is also reflected in political alignment. While 32% of liberal-leaning voters view the government’s support measures as sufficient, only 25% of the supporters of the governing coalition (AD) share that view. Conversely, deep skepticism persists on the left, with 100% of BE voters and 89% of CDU supporters labeling the current aid as inadequate.
Expert Insight:
The data suggests a disconnect between the government’s policy response and the public’s perception of their own financial security. As energy prices remain tied to international maritime stability, the government faces a complex challenge: balancing the demand for immediate, broad-based financial relief against the reality of an evolving global conflict that may continue to strain household budgets well into the future.
Future Outlook
Public opinion remains divided regarding the duration of the conflict. While negotiations and a current ceasefire are in progress, only 21% of those surveyed believe the situation will be resolved in less than six months. A significant portion of the population expects a longer timeline, with 32% anticipating the conflict will last between six months and one year, and another 32% fearing it will extend beyond a year. Younger respondents, specifically those aged 18 to 34, appear the most pessimistic, with 46% projecting a war duration exceeding 12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is held most responsible for controlling energy prices?
Nearly half of respondents (47%) believe responsibility should be shared between the Portuguese government and the European Union. About 31% place the primary responsibility on the European Union, while 19% believe the national government holds the main role.
How does political affiliation correlate with the perception of government support?
Dissatisfaction is broad, but it varies by party. While 85% of PS voters and 76% of Chega voters deem the support insufficient, the highest levels of criticism are found among voters for the Left Bloc (100%), the CDU (89%), and the Livre party (88%).
What is the primary factor driving the current economic anxiety?
The primary driver is the rising cost of energy, specifically linked to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has led to increased costs for fuel and essential goods and services.
How do you believe the government could better address these widespread economic concerns?
