The Agency for Administrative Modernization (AMA) will now be called the Agency for State Technological Reform (ARTE), under a decree-law published today in the Official Gazette, entering into force this Friday. On August 13, the Presidency of the Republic announced the promulgation of the law restructuring the agency.
According to Decree-Law No. 96/2025, the newly created Agency for State Technological Reform (ARTE, IP) consolidates the responsibilities of AMA, IP, while adding a broader set of powers needed to meet Portugal’s strategic goals in digital transformation. The program of the XXV Constitutional Government clearly sets out this ambition — to position Portugal among the 10 most digitally advanced countries by 2030.
Under the new law, all references to AMA in previous legislation, including Decree-Law No. 43/2012, are now considered to refer to ARTE. The agency’s mission is to direct, coordinate and implement the State’s strategy for technological transformation and digitalization. This includes promoting modernization and simplification across Public Administration, developing citizen- and business-focused digital services, integrating emerging technologies, and preparing Portuguese society for future technological opportunities.
ARTE’s responsibilities cover the design and coordination of a unified digital transformation strategy, governance of information systems, and adoption of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. Its role also extends to cybersecurity, information security, and compliance, in coordination with relevant public entities. The agency will manage and expand citizen-facing services, such as Citizen Shops and Citizen Spaces, while also coordinating ICT procurement processes.
Additionally, ARTE will issue prior opinions on public investment projects, oversee the allocation of European funds related to administrative modernization, and support fraud detection solutions in public services. The Director of Information Systems and Technologies of the Public Administration will, by default, serve as chairman of the board, with the members of AMA’s board remaining in office until ARTE’s leadership is formally appointed.
The decree-law enters into force the day after its publication.
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