Petrol prices are expected to drop by half a cent, and diesel prices are expected to be two cents cheaper.

"According to the Directorate General of Energy and Geology (DGEG), the average price per litre of diesel in Portugal on Friday (October 3) was €1.573, while petrol was €1.707. If forecasts for next week are confirmed, the average price of diesel will be €1.553 and that of 95-grade petrol will be €1.702," the ACP states in a note published on its website.

The ACP emphasizes that "these forecasts are based on the assumption that the extraordinary tax reduction measures implemented by the government to mitigate price increases will continue."

"The measures in force include the reduction of the Tax on Petroleum Products (ISP) and the offsetting of additional VAT revenue," the ACP adds, and this ISP reduction has been the subject of much debate in recent days.