897
No. of Chemicals enterprises
Source: Statistics Portugal and SABI (2021)
Chemicals and Rubber & Plastic industry at a glance
In 2021, the chemicals and rubber & plastic industry in Portugal achieved a turnover of €12B, with exports amounting to €8B. This industry serves multiple sectors, including automotive, construction, packaging, electronics and textiles.
Portugal has a well-educated and skilled workforce, particularly in the fields of chemical, chemical engineering, biochemical and materials. This ensures a competitive advantage in product development, manufacturing and research activities.
Chemical and rubber & plastic industry insights
Portugal's commitment to R&D is supported by a collaborative network involving academic spin-offs, technological startups and renowned R&D centers, such as CIQUP - Research Center in Chemistry and CENTIMFE – Technological Center for the Mouldmaking, Special Tooling and Plastic Industries.
In terms of sustainability, Portugal's commitment to adopting greener processes, recycling technologies and bio-based materials is reflected in the National Energy and Climate Plan 2021-2030 and in the Roadmap for Carbon Neutrality, particularly focusing on decarbonizing the sector.
Recent FDI projects in Portugal
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SCG Chemicals (Thailand)
In 2022, Thailand’s SCG Chemicals completed the acquisition of a 70% stake in Sirplaste
Repsol (Spain)
In 2021, Repsol has announced a €657M investment to expand the company's Sines Industrial Complex
Dow (USA)
Dow's plant in Estarreja is responsible for producing a crucial raw material for polyurethane manufacturing called MDI
