Portugal Tourism Chief Debunks ‘Urban Myths’ of Overtourism
Portugal’s Secretary of State for Tourism, Pedro Machado, has called for a nationwide effort to dismantle “urban myths” that he claims are unfairly tarnishing the country’s most vital industry. Speaking in Faro on Monday, Machado argued that misconceptions regarding overtourism, low wages, and immigration are a “disservice to the country.”
With tourism now accounting for roughly 20% of Portugal’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Machado emphasized that the sector’s continued expansion is essential for national prosperity. His remarks came during the final session of the “Tourism Strategy 2035” conference cycle, a series of forums designed to shape the government’s long-term vision for the industry.
Myth 1: “Too Much Tourism”
Addressing the growing public discourse regarding overtourism, Machado firmly rejected the idea that Portugal has reached its limit. “It is part of a certain ‘caviar elite’ to say there is too much tourism in Portugal because it causes inconvenience in some places,” he said. “No, there is not too much tourism, and we need to continue growing.”
He highlighted that tourism acts as a powerful export engine that reaches every corner of the country, not just famous hotspots. According to Machado, the goal is to spread this growth across more regions rather than scaling back.
Myth 2: Low Wages and Poor Qualifications
The Secretary countered the stereotype that tourism is a refuge for unskilled labor and stagnant pay. He noted that over 54% of tourism workers now hold secondary or higher education degrees. Furthermore, while the national economy grew by 2% to 2.3% over the last six years, Machado pointed out that average wages in the tourism sector have increased by more than 5% during the same period.
Myth 3: The “Threat” of Immigrant Labor
Perhaps his most pointed remarks concerned the role of foreign workers. Machado stated flatly that the industry cannot survive without international labor. “Portugal does not have enough Portuguese people to serve the tourism industry today,” he emphasized. “It’s a fact; it’s not even worth discussing.”
He urged the public to abandon the narrative that foreigners are jeopardizing local jobs, arguing instead that the country must focus on its “absorption capacity” to integrate qualified workers from nations like Brazil, Cape Verde, Angola, and India.
Looking Toward 2035
The Secretary’s comments follow a triumphant weekend for the industry, as Portugal secured 19 trophies at the 31st World Travel Awards—often called the “Oscars of Tourism”—held in Funchal. Machado attributed this success to the excellence of Portuguese entrepreneurs and the quality of service provided to international visitors.
The “Tourism Strategy 2035” is expected to be finalized in January 2025. Following a period of government validation and public discussion, the official framework is set for approval in February, providing a roadmap for sustainable, high-value growth over the next decade.
Image: Pexels – Ramon Perucho
