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"This is a milestone that reinforces the strategic role that the laboratory plays in regional and national development, promoting sustainable and innovative practices for the blue economy", says Pedro Pousão, Chairman of the Board of S2AQUAcoLAB.  

Based in Olhão (Algarve), S2AQUAcoLAB has consolidated its position as a transforming agent, actively collaborating with companies, educational institutions and other research centres. These partnerships make it possible to respond to the global challenges of the aquaculture sector, with solutions that are aligned with general, regional and local interests.  

Benefits of Public Utility Status  

Being recognised as a Public Utility Entity brings significant advantages for both the institution and its partners. S2AQUAcoLAB will benefit from tax exemptions, which reinforce its ability to reinvest in projects and strategic lines. In addition, natural and legal persons who contribute funds to the laboratory, including patronage actions, can enjoy tax benefits: IRS deductions and, in the case of IRC, increased costs as provided for in the Tax Benefits Statute.  

Strategic Recognition  

This status is granted to private non-profit organisations, such as associations and foundations, which carry out activities of general interest in conjunction with public administrations. The declaration of public utility is the responsibility of the Prime Minister and is currently delegated to the Secretary of State for the Presidency of the Council of Ministers. In the case of S2AQUAcoLAB, the status was published in Diário da República no. 229/2024, Series II of 26 November, by Order no. 13930/2024.

"This recognition is not only a reflection of the work carried out so far, since we are an institution created in 2021 and have just completed three years of activity, but also a motivation to continue innovating and contributing to a more sustainable future for our region and the country", stresses Pedro Pousão.  

This status projects S2AQUAcoLAB as a strategic partner for future regional and national projects, while recognising the relevance of aquaculture as an essential sector for safe and sustainable food production.