‍

Antonia Lopes, Business Manager of agap2 Indústria, shares her insightful perspective in the latest Executive Digest article. Published originally in Portuguese, feel free to read it in English bellow.  

In an international context of economic, financial, environmental, and social concerns, remaining competitive is increasingly difficult. However, amid challenges and opportunities, Portugal continues to hold its position as a key industrial partner, attracting €420 million in foreign direct investment (FDI) in 2024. The FDI stock in the "industries, electricity, gas, and water" category has been growing over the past five years, representing 14% of the total FDI stock by the end of 2024 (source: Banco de Portugal). Our country is currently considered attractive for industrial development.

Portugal needs to accelerate its digital transition. Industries that fail to adopt innovative technological solutions in Artificial Intelligence, Automation, and Process Digitalization risk becoming obsolete. It is essential for workers to acquire new skills suited to technological advancements and to challenge the industry in areas such as infrastructure, cybersecurity, and compliance.

Portugal has been a pioneer in the transition to green energy, taking steady steps toward stability. According to AICEP, in the first half of 2024, Portugal ranked fourth among European countries with the highest renewable energy incorporation, achieving 83.8%. It trailed Norway, Austria, and Denmark, which reached 98.9%, 85.4%, and 83.8%, respectively. Portugal has already invested significantly in sustainability, but there is still a long way to go. Initiatives need to expand into other realms, such as economic and social domains.

The future of Portuguese industry also depends on the internationalization of our companies and a stronger diversification of our industrial framework. On the one hand, focusing on exports, strategic partnerships, and developing emerging markets will be crucial for the growth of the national industry. On the other hand, diversification can help the country reduce its vulnerability to economic crises and increase its global competitiveness.

The human contribution is key to maintaining a strong, increasingly responsible, competitive, and sustainable industry. Therefore, academic and professional training must urgently reinvent itself. All Portuguese professionals should benefit from ongoing, flexible, and high-quality training programs. The ability to adapt to the transformations of our industry promises to strengthen its quality and creativity, leading to greater sustainability.

In conclusion, several challenges and opportunities are driving the Portuguese industry forward. The roles of the government, companies, and society will be decisive in enabling Portugal to take the next steps toward a future that fosters a more robust and dynamic economy.

‍