Blue Economy Cluster - Blue Economy Cluster

Portugal has a strong maritime vocation rooted in its history and privileged geographic location, positioning it as a strategic hub for the development of the Blue Economy. Today, the country is widely recognised as a source of innovative industrial and technological solutions, driven by a dynamic ecosystem of universities, research centres, and highly skilled companies.

Its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Americas makes Portugal a natural gateway to the Atlantic Ocean and one of the best places to develop, manufacture, and test new maritime equipment and technologies. This positioning is particularly relevant in emerging areas such as offshore wind energy, port digitalisation, blue biotechnology, and sustainable aquaculture.

Sustainability and Innovation

Portugal stands out for its ability to integrate innovative technologies and sustainable solutions, aligned with global trends in the energy transition, digitalisation, and the circular economy. The country is firmly committed to decarbonising maritime and port transport, electrifying port infrastructure, and offering alternative fuels, thereby ensuring its competitiveness and relevance in international trade.

Furthermore, Portugal is a centre of excellence in marine science research, benefitting from its wide variety of marine environments — from coastal areas to deep-sea zones — enabling diverse and comprehensive scientific exploration. This unique setting supports the development of emerging fields such as blue biotechnology, driven by renowned research centres and advanced infrastructure that collaborate closely with international initiatives to foster knowledge and innovation in the blue economy.

Portugal's maritime ecosystems and habitat diversity are key assets for blue biotechnology, sustainable aquaculture, offshore renewable energies, and the digitalisation and automation of the maritime sector. The country has promoted strategic partnerships with shipbuilders and global partners, aiming to integrate into international value chains and develop technologically advanced and environmentally sustainable solutions.

Portugal is thus positioning itself as a hub of innovation and sustainability in the blue economy, driving economic growth and the internationalisation of its companies through a commitment to an inclusive, circular, and competitive blue economy. This commitment is reflected in ongoing collaboration with international partners and coordination among the various subsectors of the blue economy, ensuring strategic alignment with global goals for decarbonisation and digitalisation.