Hugo Nunes of CHEGA has strongly criticized the Regional Government's agricultural policy, warning that the traditional vineyards of Estreito de Câmara de Lobos risk disappearing "within a decade". According to the official, the lack of incentives to ensure producer income and generational renewal is the main cause.
Nunes highlighted that despite Madeira Wine being an internationally high-value product, producers receive only a small part of the economic chain. He also pointed to the harshness of working in small plots and steep terraces, with increasing production costs and limited mechanization.
The party proposes an upward revision of per-kilogram grape support, faster payments, the creation of a publicly co-funded regional agricultural insurance, and tax incentives to attract new generations. Criticisms were also made regarding irrigation water management, citing supply and flow issues that jeopardize harvests.
