Agroforestry systems in permanent grasslands in Portugal

Portugal’s CAP Strategic Plan (2023–2028) states that agroforestry systems are only viable on permanent grassland, highlighting its unique approach within the EU. These systems are based on natural regeneration, promote tree cover in meadows and pastures, and exclude annual crops. The definition includes minimum densities of 40–60 trees per hectare, with species such as olive, pine, chestnut and fruit trees in wooded areas. They are not considered agroforestry if there is no commercial production. The total registered area of afforestation and agroforestry is 212,783 hectares, with no detailed breakdown. Outcome and impact indicators are not yet available. Portugal has around 1.2 million hectares of agroforestry systems, the lowest percentage of afforestation in the EU.