# Portuguese economic indicators and business trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/portuguese-economic-indicators-and-business-trends
> Updated: 2026-09-07T08:16:16.000Z. Sources: 18. Developments: 3.

Recent economic data from Portugal highlights contrasting trends in business stability and the influence of international investment. 

In July, corporate insolvencies rose by 58% compared to the previous year, totaling 163 cases. This increase was driven largely by third-party requests, which grew by 8.2%. The telecommunications sector experienced the highest growth in insolvencies at 50%, followed by hospitality and catering. During the same period, the creation of new businesses saw a 21% decline. Geographically, Lisbon recorded the highest number of cases since the start of the year, while regions such as Madeira saw significant percentage increases in insolvencies.

In contrast to these insolvency trends, a study by Informa D&B indicates that foreign-capital companies are central to the Portuguese economy. While these 17,000 companies make up only 3% of the total business fabric, they are responsible for 46% of the country’s exports, 22% of total employment, and 31% of total business turnover. Foreign direct investment (FDI) has grown by approximately 70% over the last decade, reaching 214 billion euros by the end of 2025.

By September 2026, the economic outlook shifted toward moderate growth, with GDP increasing by 2.5% fueled by the final reinforcement of European funds. This growth has opened opportunities in technological innovation, the green transition, the circular economy, and artificial intelligence. While cities like Lisbon and Porto have developed robust ecosystems for technology and professional services, entrepreneurs continue to face structural challenges, including access to capital, bureaucratic complexity, and talent retention. To support local innovation, regional initiatives like the Cascais Idea and Business Competition (CINC) have been established to foster startup ecosystems.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-07: Portugal economy shows growth amid rising entrepreneurship

Portugal's economy is growing at 2.5%, driven by EU funds and innovation. While entrepreneurs face bureaucratic and capital challenges, the country offers a strong startup ecosystem for international founders.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/portugal-economy-shows-growth-amid-rising-entrepreneurship

### 2026-08-20: Portugal economy: Foreign companies drive 46% of exports

Foreign-owned companies drive 46% of Portugal's exports and 22% of its employment, while the nation faces ongoing challenges in housing affordability and tourism sustainability.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/foreign-capital-drives-46-of-portugals-exports-study-shows

### 2026-08-12: Portugal corporate insolvencies rise 58% in July

Portugal saw a 58% surge in corporate insolvencies in July, while new business creation fell by 21% during the same month, according to Iberinform data.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/portugal-corporate-insolvencies-rise-58-in-july

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Cite as: Portuguese economic indicators and business trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/portuguese-economic-indicators-and-business-trends