Portugal, a small nation on Europe’s western edge, has long been celebrated as a land of legendary sailors, pioneers of global exploration, and, of course, the home of one of the most famous footballers of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo. Yet, beyond the glittering world of sports, Portugal is also the birthplace of major corporations that have extended their reach into international markets. These companies are not confined to the domestic scene but have become global players in various industries.
From Energy to Retail
One of the largest names in the energy sector is Galp Energia. This giant in oil and natural gas is also a leader in renewable energy development. Galp operates in over 11 countries, including Spain, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique. Its success in balancing traditional energy exploration with substantial investments in green technology has made Galp a symbol of modernization within Portugal’s energy industry.
Equally impressive is EDP (Energias de Portugal), one of Europe’s largest electricity companies. EDP is renowned as a leader in renewable energy, particularly wind power. Operating in 19 countries, including the United States and Brazil, EDP has demonstrated that technological innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. In Brazil, it has become a key player in wind power projects that support the region’s clean energy transition.
In the retail sector, Jerónimo Martins is a highly recognized name. Although Portuguese by origin, the company has found immense success abroad, particularly through its supermarket chain in Poland, Biedronka, which has become a major player in that market. Additionally, it operates the Ara chain in Colombia, showcasing its ability to adapt to the diverse needs of local markets.
Paper, Cork, and Creative Economic Contributions
Portugal also boasts unique industrial heritage, exemplified by The Navigator Company, a major player in the pulp and paper sector. Its products are exported to over 130 countries, with its main markets in Europe and North America. Navigator is a prime example of how Portuguese companies can blend manufacturing tradition with sustainable innovation.
Then there is Corticeira Amorim, which may not be a household name but plays a significant role in the global cork industry. As the world’s largest cork producer, Corticeira Amorim supplies its products to over 100 countries, including the United States, France, and Italy. The corks produced by this company are used in various applications, from wine bottle stoppers to eco-friendly construction materials.
Construction and Infrastructure
In the construction sector, Mota-Engil stands as a prominent name with operations in over 20 countries. From Europe to Africa and Latin America, the company has showcased its expertise in building large-scale infrastructure such as highways, bridges, and ports. In Africa, Mota-Engil is a key player in developing infrastructure that supports economic growth across the region.
Meanwhile, Grupo José de Mello, with a portfolio spanning healthcare, infrastructure, and energy, has extended its operations to international markets, including Brazil and Angola. The company is known for its innovative approach in creating solutions for strategic sectors, making it one of Portugal’s most respected business groups.
Not to be overlooked is Semapa, a company active in the paper, cement, and environmental sectors. Semapa has positioned itself as a leader in these industries, with a presence in Europe, North America, and Africa. In what are often considered traditional industries, Semapa has managed to add value through efficient production and environmentally friendly innovations.
Altri, a company focused on pulp production, is also a vital player in Portugal’s export economy. Its products, used to create high-quality paper, are exported to various countries in Europe and Asia, demonstrating Portugal’s strategic role in meeting global demand for industrial raw materials.
