The Portuguese are reducing consumption in the face of high inflation, with 48% saying they live with difficulty on their current income. According to a survey carried out by the ICS/ISCTE for Expresso, the majority of Portuguese people (72%) started by cutting “expenses with leisure activities, such as outings, meals out, hobbies, cinema or shows”, while 62% of respondents say they have “decreased domestic use of electricity, gas and/or water”.

Of those who have reduced these consumptions, there are 54% who state they are still living comfortably or satisfactorily. Among retirees, nearly two-thirds (63%) have reduced their consumption.

In addition, more than a third of the Portuguese (37%) have cut essential goods and 19% in consultations, medicines and other health expenses. Failing to pay rent or house payments is a concern for 57%, while around two-thirds of respondents say they are “very” or “somewhat” worried about the possibility of not being able to pay electricity bills, water or gas.