A major Portuguese press distributor will cease daily newspaper delivery in eight regional districts starting in 2026, citing financial difficulties and warning of a threat to democratic principles. VASP – Distribuição e Logística, S.A. announced its intention to halt daily press distribution as of January 2, 2026.
The affected areas are Beja, Évora, Portalegre, Castelo Branco, Guarda, Viseu, Vila Real, and Bragança.
The company attributed its decision to a “particularly demanding financial situation.” This financial strain results from a “continued drop in press sales and a significant increase in operational costs.”
VASP emphasized the potential societal consequences of its action. It stated the move “will result in limited regular access to the press in part of the national territory.” This, the company added, affects “a right enshrined in the Constitution of the Portuguese Republic and an essential pillar of democracy.”
The distributor also noted it had previously alerted public officials to the issue. VASP stated it had “widely signaled the need for a structural decision by public policymakers regarding support for press distribution.” However, the company said this decision “remains to be realized.”