The analysis of this barometer revealed "relative stability in the year-on-year GDP growth rate, taking into account the evolution, up to the start of the 3rd quarter, of the sectoral indicators analyzed," with "the greatest contribution to this growth likely to continue to come from private consumption and, at a relatively low level, from investment," the statement reads. The forecast for the year as a whole thus remains at around 1.8% (in the range between 1.6% and 2.0%), meaning that "the Portuguese economy will thus continue to grow above the eurozone average, albeit at levels that limit the evolution of the country's economic activity and hinder convergence with Europe". CIP's director-general, Rafael Alves Rocha, quoted in the statement, argues that "the growth expected for this year is clearly insufficient" and calls for "measures to be taken to boost business investment". "Only in this way will we be able to counteract the current slowdown in the economy, by increasing production capacity and, above all, increasing productivity through innovation and the introduction of new technologies in companies", making it possible to "improve wages", he reiterates. This growth forecast is lower than the one put forward by the government, which is 2%, according to what was conveyed to the parties in the negotiations for the State Budget for 2025. On the other hand, it is in line with the Public Finance Council's projection, released this month, which also points to GDP growth of 1.8%. Officials