Portugal’s Growing Media & Events Sector

Overcoming challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, Portugal’s Convention & Trade Fair Planning industry has shown resilience and significant growth. Portugal’s media and international events industries are expected to generate revenue of €484.8m in 2025, with 2,368 businesses operating in the sector, according to IBIS World.

Chris Marson, CEO of RTi Family Office, comments on Portugal’s unique position: “Portugal has seen growth in media and international events such as the Web Summit, Portugal Investment Owners Club investment forums, and the IFA Global Conference 2025 that this year will bring over two thousand of the world's leading advisors in tax and investment to Portugal this year.

“Lisbon was named one of the top three worldwide destinations last year for congresses and conventions by the International Congress and Convention Association.

“This, in addition to a thriving tourism industry, thanks in part to its strategic location on Europe’s Western edge, gives investors a great opportunity to be a part of Portugal’s continued rise.”

International events, sports, and luxury living have all seen major GDP growth in Portugal over the last five years, alongside healthcare, tourism and hospitality, as well as fintech and digital assets.

Paul Stannard, an international entrepreneur and media expert, chairman and founder of Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club, said: “Portugal has created a unique environment for like-minded people to be able to create sustainable investments in key sectors of the country’s economic strength, allowing value creators as well as highly qualified talent to prosper through a combination of tax incentives, quality of life, and investment.

“It’s no surprise that a recent report from Ernst & Young on Portugal’s competitiveness found that investor confidence was at an all-time high compared with the Eurozone and the UK.

“Portugal has created the perfect environment for cultural and international events and media engagement. We believe the new NHR 2.0 tax regime (IFICI) will further enhance its reputation with investors and creative industries.”

Portugal FIFA World Cup Co-Hosts

Portugal will also co-host the upcoming 2030 FIFA World Cup, which experts predict will see a major boost in investment in the lead-up to the tournament.

Paul Sheedy, international advisor to the Portugal Future Fund, an alternative investment fund approved for Golden Visa residency-by-investment in Portugal, said:

“Portugal has seen a rapid increase in appeal in recent years, with international investors seeing its enormous potential, stable economy and potential for significant growth in key sectors through a blended investment approach.

“The World Cup and other international events will drive significant productivity, create wealth and employment, improve transport infrastructure and deliver investment opportunities, which the Portugal Future Fund aims to take advantage of over the coming years.”

Portugal Golden Visa Residency-By-Investment Benefits

Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme offers investors an attractive opportunity to support and benefit from Portugal’s rise.

Investors can secure permanent Portuguese citizenship and an EU passport by investing a minimum of €500,000 in approved funds focused on international media and events, amongst other sectors.

Investors can secure dual residency through the Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme, which requires you to spend only seven days per year in the country. After five years, investors and their qualifying dependent family members can apply for permanent citizenship and an EU passport.

These Portuguese alternative investment funds approved for Golden Visa residency in Portugal provide exposure to potentially high-growth ventures while granting freedom of movement and unfettered access to the 29 EU Schengen countries.

This creates a pathway for investors and their families to relocate to Portugal. They can enjoy a high quality of life and a lower cost of living while benefitting from the country’s excellent healthcare, education systems, culture, and growing economic prosperity.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client;

Portugal’s Investment Outlook

According to the European Commission, Portugal’s GDP growth is forecast to rise from 2.0% in 2024 to 2.3% in 2025, significantly higher than the Eurozone’s projected growth of 0.8% and 1.3% over the same period.

Comparatively, the UK’s growth predictions stand at 1.0% for 2024 and 1.2% for 2025, underscoring Portugal’s stronger economic trajectory.

Portugal’s inflation rate is also set to improve, decreasing from 2.3% in 2024 to 1.9% in 2025, compared to the Eurozone’s 2.5% dropping to 2.2% and the UK’s 2.6% falling to 2.2%.

This lower inflation environment reflects Portugal's adept handling of economic challenges, enhancing its appeal to investors and expats alike.

Portugal’s Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI), also known as the NHR 2.0 tax regime, is set to reshape the country’s tax landscape in 2025.

The IFICI tax regime offers significant benefits for highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers and innovation-driven businesses.

With a 20% flat tax rate on income derived from the listed activities within the regime (employment and self-employment) and a tax exemption applicable to non-Portuguese income (excluding pensions), the regime aims to attract global talent while boosting Portugal’s economic competitiveness.

About Portugal Pathways

Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on luxury property, wealth management, and tax optimisation, including post-NHR tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, IFICI tax incentive applications, money transfers and bespoke relocation solutions to enhance life and investments in Portugal.

About Portugal Future Fund

The Portugal Future Fund strategically invests in key sectors, driving growth and innovation across Portugal. Approved for Portugal’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment, it offers a unique opportunity for impactful and rewarding participation.

Portugal Investment Owners Club

The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.