Santarém district’s PME Leader programme names 579 firms with €2.7bn turnover

IAPMEI reported that in 2025 the Santarém district in Portugal has 579 small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) awarded the PME Leader status, an increase of 26 over the previous year. Of these, 153 are new entrants and 426 are renewals, representing roughly 4 % of the national total.

The recognised firms generate more than €2.7 billion in turnover and are concentrated in the Lezíria do Tejo sub‑region, which alone accounts for 281 firms – nearly half the district’s total. The municipality of Santarém leads with 69 firms, followed by Benavente (45), Rio Maior (42), Salvaterra de Magos (35), Almeirim (32) and Cartaxo (26). Sector‑wise, commerce makes up 33.68 % of the recognised firms, industry 22.80 %, construction and real estate 13.47 %, services 10.88 %, agriculture and fisheries 8.98 %, tourism 6.74 % and transport 3.45 %.

Nationally, IAPMEI distinguished 14,133 enterprises as PME Leader for 2025, collectively posting a turnover above €63 billion, exports over €10 billion and supporting more than 445 000 jobs. The best‑performing firms may later receive the PME Excellence status, granting additional visibility and benefits.