Unemployment rate continues to escalate

The unemployment rate in Portugal has increased from 3.9% in 2000 to 12.7% in 2011, according to a report released by the Government last week. In the first quarter of 2012, the unemployment rate increased to 14.9% and the numbers will continue to grow, with the Government having revised upwards the unemployment rate for this year (15.5%) and the following year (16%).