Top 10 Promising Business Opportunities in Portugal This Year
Portugal, with its Western European charm, offers more than just beautiful landscapes and rich culture. The country has become a global spotlight thanks to its dynamic economy and innovation-friendly government policies.
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From green energy to sustainable tourism, Portugal presents major opportunities for those looking to invest or start a business. Here are 10 of the most promising business sectors in Portugal this year.
1. Renewable Energy
Portugal is leading Europe’s renewable energy revolution. In 2024, over 60% of its electricity came from wind, solar, and hydro sources. With an ambitious target of 80% clean energy by 2026, the government is pushing major projects like the green hydrogen hub in Sines and the expansion of solar power plants in Alentejo.
You can tap into this opportunity by investing in solar panels, battery storage tech, or energy management solutions. Programs like Plano Nacional de Energia e Clima (PNEC 2030) offer attractive subsidies to support businesses in this sector. Now is the time to be part of this profitable energy transition.
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2. Tech Startups
Lisbon has transformed into a European tech hub, home to over 2,000 startups by 2024. With affordable operational costs, a fast-growing IT community, and prestigious events like Web Summit, the city is ideal for launching your tech business. Focus areas such as fintech, healthtech, or artificial intelligence (AI) are especially promising.
The Portuguese government supports entrepreneurs through funding programs like Portugal Ventures. If you’ve got a bold idea, Lisbon is the stage to make it real.
3. Sustainable Tourism
Portugal welcomed 28 million tourists in 2024, a 12% increase from the previous year. However, the trend is shifting towards sustainable tourism. Travellers now seek eco-friendly experiences, such as rural homestays, cultural education tours in Sintra, or local products from the Algarve.
You can build a business offering authentic, low-impact experiences, like community-based tours or eco-accommodations. With support from Turismo de Portugal, this sector promises stable growth.
4. Agro-Industry
Portugal is famous for exporting quality wine, olive oil, and fruits. With the global demand for organic products growing by 7% per year until 2025, there are vast opportunities in the agro-industry. Investing in precision agriculture or exporting high-value products like Madeira avocados could yield great returns.
Leverage the superfood trend and rising global demand to grow your business. With the right strategy, this sector could be your goldmine.
5. Real Estate
Property markets in Lisbon and Porto are booming, with demand rising 9% in 2024. Remote workers and digital nomads are seeking short-term rentals, making platforms like Airbnb highly profitable. Renovating old buildings in areas like Alfama can yield returns of up to 8–10%.
To succeed, consider buying strategic properties or managing tourist rentals. The potential is massive, and the market is expanding.
6. E-commerce
Portugal’s e-commerce market is growing 15% annually, with an estimated value of €12 billion by 2025. You can join this trend by launching a dropshipping business, building logistics apps, or offering digital payment services. Local platforms like Worten or El Corte Inglés are also open to SME partnerships.
With a smart marketing strategy, you can capture a larger market and benefit from the digital retail boom.
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7. Healthcare Services
Portugal’s elderly population reached 23% in 2024, driving demand for home care, telemedicine, and long-term care facilities. The government has allocated €500 million through the Saúde 2025 program to modernize healthcare, creating room for your innovation.
Consider launching a telehealth platform or a comfortable senior care facility. This business is both highly profitable and socially impactful.
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8. Digital Education
Digital transformation has reshaped education, and Portugal is keeping up. With a goal to have 50% of the workforce digitally certified by 2026, demand for e-learning platforms and tech courses (like coding and design) is rising. Programs like the Digital Skills and Jobs Coalition support the development of innovative education solutions.
If you’re skilled in tech or education, now’s the time to launch online courses or training platforms tailored to the market’s needs.
9. Ecotourism
Ecotourism is booming in Portugal, with travellers looking for activities like birdwatching in Ria Formosa or low-emission eco-resorts. The government supports this sector through the Estratégia Nacional de Turismo 2027, with a €200 million budget for sustainable destinations.
You can start an eco-tour business, green lodging, or outdoor nature experiences that showcase Portugal’s natural beauty—a perfect way to earn while protecting the environment.
10. Creative Industries
Portugal is increasingly chosen as a filming destination for Hollywood and Netflix, supported by 30% tax incentives for foreign productions. Fashion, visual arts, and traditional music like fado are also gaining global interest. Cities like Porto and Lisbon now house over 50 active creative studios.
If you’re a creative spirit, start a production studio, fashion label, or art project rooted in Portuguese culture. The global market is ready for your work.
Portugal is a land of opportunity for investors and entrepreneurs. From green energy to creative industries, these 10 sectors reflect global trends and benefit from progressive government policies. Be sure to understand local regulations and take advantage of subsidy programs to maximize your success. With the right moves, you can thrive in Portugal this year and beyond.
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