The Portuguese fashion industry is recognized for its capacity to innovate and for the confidence that its heritage of know-how inspires in the international market.
Comprising eight sectors—including clothing, footwear, leather goods, and jewellery—the Portuguese fashion industry encompasses a total of 14,959 companies (2023 data), the majority of which are family-run SMEs employing over 160,000 workers. Representing approximately 22 per cent of Portuguese manufacturing companies, the sector generated a turnover exceeding 10 billion euros.
The Portuguese fashion industry is deeply rooted in tradition and stands out on the European stage. According to EURATEX, in 2023, Portugal ranked as the fifth-largest textile and clothing producer in the EU by turnover. The country is also home to Europe's most significant 'textile centre' and is the second-largest footwear producer in Europe.
Thanks to a high degree of geographical concentration, different sectors and stages of production are located within just a few dozen kilometres—something increasingly rare on a global scale. In this unique ecosystem, the advantages of versatility and flexibility are evident.
Today, Portugal’s fashion sector seamlessly blends modernity with craftsmanship, design, and creativity. With companies well-equipped to collaborate with the most sophisticated global clients, 'Made in Portugal' is recognised worldwide for the quality of its products and the excellence of its services.
The sector in figures
10
bn €3.5
bn €14,959
160,000
7.3
bn €208
By 2024, the sector’s exports are expected to surpass 7.3 billion euros, representing more than 9 per cent of Portugal’s total exports.
Portuguese fashion exports reached over 200 markets, with Spain, France, and Germany accounting for approximately 52 per cent of the total volume.
The international recognition of Portuguese high-value-added products, coupled with a growing focus on branding within the fashion industry, has strengthened the sector’s global reputation.
Portuguese designers have embraced a distinctive style in which creativity takes centre stage, pushing boundaries in design and form. This ambition to develop new concepts—drawing inspiration from the past while embracing contemporary trends—has garnered international acclaim.
Portuguese products are also increasingly defined by their technical sophistication. A key player in the European technical textile market, Portugal delivers innovative and differentiated solutions for sectors such as sports, workwear, healthcare, defence, and mobility.
