Madeira's economy completed a cycle of 60 consecutive months of growth in March, while the unemployment rate fell to 4.5% in the first quarter of 2026. These figures, released by the Regional Statistics Directorate of Madeira (DREM), indicate an acceleration in economic growth and an improvement in the labor market.
The Regional Economic Activity Indicator (IRAE) points to a consolidated expansion trajectory, while the unemployment rate, set at 4.5%, represents a significant reduction compared to the same period last year and the previous quarter. Average monthly wages also saw a nominal increase of 3.4%.
However, agriculture and fishing showed negative performance, with sharp declines in banana sales and the value of landed fish. Conversely, the energy and construction sectors demonstrated positive development, with increases in electricity production and building permits.
