The President of the Regional Government, Miguel Albuquerque, highlighted Madeira's continuous economic growth, stating it is "the greatest engine for development and wealth distribution, poverty eradication, and social inequalities." Speaking at the opening of the State of the Region debate, Albuquerque emphasized that the island's economy has been growing "above the national average" for 61 consecutive months.
In 2025, Madeira's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reached 8.024 billion euros, an 80% increase in a decade. The number of companies established in 2024 was 35,906, and unemployment follows a "downward trajectory," with over 133,000 people employed. Albuquerque also mentioned the increase in average salaries above inflation across all sectors and that the regional minimum wage is the highest in the country.
The head of the Madeiran executive attributed these results to "correct budgetary and fiscal policies," including a "substantial reduction in public debt" and lower taxes for families and businesses. Albuquerque also addressed ongoing projects, such as the new central hospital and the Porto Santo health unit, and guaranteed the delivery of more homes this year, with a focus on "high-rise construction" in areas with less landscape impact. The recovery of surgical waiting lists in the health sector was another point discussed, with a commitment to fulfilling the Regional Government's program.
