A new collective labour agreement for Portugal’s footwear sector has come into force, signed by APICCAPS and the Federation of Trade Unions of Textile, Wool, Clothing, Footwear and Fur Workers of Portugal (FESETE).

Effective from May 1, the agreement covers 42,000 workers and 1,900 companies. Ten of FESETE’s eleven unions signed the deal, with the S. João da Madeira-based footwear union opting out.

The agreement includes a 3% salary increase, a restructuring of job categories, and updates to working conditions. These include new rules on working hour adaptability, provisions for 12-hour shifts in high-tech operations, and stricter penalties for unjustified absences before or after rest days or holidays.

APICCAPS president Luís Onofre said the deal reflects market developments while supporting the sector’s competitiveness and sustainability.