Madeira's Future Takes Center Stage at Landmark March Conference
A major conference on Madeira's future will take place on March 27 at the University of Madeira's Rectorate Auditorium. Titled 'Madeira: Priorities and Challenges', the event will focus on tourism, construction, and real estate. Organised by Expresso and Jornal da Madeira, it will bring together government officials, experts, and industry leaders for key discussions.
The conference opens with a session featuring Miguel Albuquerque, President of the Regional Government of Madeira. His participation highlights the event's importance in shaping policy for the island's development.
Tourism has seen dramatic growth in recent years. Overnight stays jumped from around 1.2 million in 2021—a year heavily affected by COVID—to 7.6 million in 2025, according to Portugal's National Statistics Institute. Visitor numbers also surged, rising from 1.5 million to over 3 million, with 2024 setting a record at 3.1 million tourists. The quality of tourism has shifted as well. Since 2021, the number of five-star hotels has increased by 25%. Sustainable travel options, like certified eco-resorts, have expanded, while adventure tourism—such as hiking and whale-watching—has seen a 40% rise in bookings. However, critics point to overcrowding in coastal areas, particularly in Funchal, as a growing concern.
The conference aims to address both opportunities and challenges facing Madeira's economy. Discussions will explore how to balance growth with sustainability in tourism, construction, and real estate. The outcomes could influence future policies for the island's development.
