Good News for Algarve Visitors as Portugal Abolishes Tolls on A-22

Coastal highway A-22 with smooth traffic and scenery. Coastal highway A-22 with smooth traffic and scenery.

Portugal has officially eliminated tolls on the A-22 highway, which connects Huelva in Spain to the Algarve region. This significant change, effective immediately, is expected to boost local economies and enhance travel between the two regions.

Background of the A-22 Toll

The A-22, a vital route for both locals and tourists, has been a point of contention due to its tolls, which many viewed as a barrier to free movement. The tolls were initially introduced as part of a system where the state covered costs through virtual tolls, but this changed in 2011 when actual tolls were imposed on users.

The decision to abolish the tolls was approved by the Portuguese Parliament in May. It is part of a broader initiative to eliminate tolls on several highways that were previously classified as SCUT (no cost to users).

The government estimates that this measure will cost around 157 million euros but believes the long-term benefits will outweigh the initial financial impact.

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