Liberal Initiative (IL) MP Gonçalo Maia Camelo has described the proposed State Budget for 2027 as 'globally bad' for Madeira. Key criticisms focus on the absence of clear commitments regarding the financing of the new hospital, the return of the ferry service, and the future of the Free Trade Zone.
While acknowledging an increase in financial transfers to the region, Camelo argued that the 4.9% rise (€14.3 million) barely keeps pace with estimated inflation, amounting to little more than an update. The €79.9 million allocated to compensate Madeira for the lack of Cohesion Fund resources was also criticized for remaining unchanged, creating uncertainty about compensation for the region's ultra-peripheral status.
The MP highlighted the lack of clarity on funding for the new Central and University Hospital, the absence of decisions on a regular maritime link to the mainland following a feasibility study, and the uncertainty surrounding the new tax benefits regime for the Free Trade Zone, which could prevent new companies from being admitted from 2027 onwards.
