International investors have systematically highlighted quality of life, social stability, and access to quality talent as some of the reasons for choosing Portugal as a destination for foreign direct investment (FDI).
As a result of these assets, Portugal occupies a top position in the ranking of European countries with a great number of FDI projects in 2022, the year in which the country attracted 248 new FDI projects - a 24% growth compared to the 200 projects in 2021.
Alongside with FDI, Portugal has been also recognized as a destination gaining increasing popularity in terms of tourism, because of its great capacity to enchant and contribute to the well-being and happiness of tourists.
After very difficult years because of the pandemic, Portugal once again claimed leadership in the sector, having reached a record amount of 21.1 billion euros in tourism income in 2022. It is expected that a new record, in terms of overnight stays and income, will be broken again in 2023.
The good results obtained so far in attracting and managing FDI and tourism projects suggest that Portugal must continue to work so that its international perception is that of a unique destination to invest, work or visit.
To this end, it is necessary to continue to acknowledge Portugal as a sustainable destination, with a cohesive, innovative, and competitive mindset that values work and talent. An inclusive country open to the world, as claimed in the 2027 Tourism Strategy and the 20-23 +Sustainable Tourism Plan, documents crafted by Turismo de Portugal.
This positioning must consider, however, that society is constantly evolving, and that the new generation of professionals has a life project, in which the professional career is a mean and not an end.
Topics such as happiness, well-being and organizational culture are increasingly being integrated into the decision-making processes of companies and individuals when they select the location for their next investment, business get to together or family trip.
In fact, happiness and well-being are emerging subjects that are of relevance to the productivity of people, companies and the destinations that host them. For all these reasons, Portugal can and must work to position itself as an increasingly happier destination, improving its position in the United Nations World Happiness Report.
More opportunities are needed to learn best practices at national and local levels to advance happiness and well-being.
More opportunities are needed to promote our country as a destination committed with sustainable, inclusive and… happy organizations!
