The backbone of global connectivity lies deep under the ocean in the form of underwater fiber optic cables. These cables are essential to the infrastructure of the digital world, and Portugal plays a surprisingly powerful role in this hidden yet critical network.

Recent analyses have shown that around 25% of the world’s underwater cables are connected to Portugal. This means that one in every four international data routes that traverse the oceans touches Portuguese territory, making this a highly significant factor in the global digital economy. The importance of Portugal’s position is not just a small detail, it's a vital element in global connectivity.

Underwater cables are the lifelines of our digital world. They carry more than 95% of international internet traffic, including emails, video calls, financial transactions, streaming services, and cloud computing. These cables are far more reliable and faster than satellite connections, forming the invisible highways that allow the global internet to function smoothly. Each of these cables spans thousands of kilometers across ocean floors, linking continents and countries. They arrive at specific points known as "cable landing stations," and having these stations in a country provides both technical and strategic advantages.

Portugal’s location, with its Atlantic-facing coast, places it at the crossroads of Europe, the Americas, and Africa. This geographical advantage has positioned Portugal as a natural hub for undersea cable landings for decades. As data traffic continues to surge at unprecedented rates, this strategic location has become even more valuable, making Portugal an increasingly vital player in the global digital infrastructure landscape.

Having 25% of the world’s cable landings means Portugal is fast becoming one of the primary gateways for global data flows, especially between Europe, Africa, South America, and the United States. This role brings significant implications for both the business and geopolitical world. As demand for secure and fast data routes grows, countries and companies are looking for reliable digital corridors, and Portugal offers just that. This has made the country increasingly attractive not only for business opportunities but also for geopolitical strategy.

The inflow of international cables to Portugal has led to an increase in investment in digital infrastructure. Portugal is now a magnet for investment in data centers, cloud services, cybersecurity, and smart logistics. Major tech companies are now viewing Portugal as a central hub for their global operations. This influx of investment is not only creating more high-skilled jobs but also spurring innovation and building startup ecosystems, fostering the development of a thriving digital economy. It’s clear that Portugal is not just connecting cables; it is building a digital future.

Furthermore, Portugal’s commitment to renewable energy adds another layer of appeal. As data infrastructure consumes massive amounts of electricity, the country’s renewable energy resources make it an attractive destination for sustainable digital development. Clean energy combined with digital infrastructure is the future, and Portugal is already ahead of the curve.

Globally, there is a shift in how countries are valued within the digital economy. While traditional tech centers like Silicon Valley and Frankfurt remain key, the focus is now expanding to include countries that serve as the physical connectors of the digital world. Portugal fits this new profile perfectly. In a world where data is power, countries that host cables that enable data flow wield quiet but significant influence. With its strategic geography, political stability, energy efficiency, and readiness for digital transformation, Portugal is poised to play a leading role in the future of the global internet.

Despite the tremendous opportunities, Portugal also faces challenges. It must continue to invest in cybersecurity to protect its critical infrastructure, ensure that local regulations support international collaboration and investment, expand technical education to nurture talent, and remain vigilant in resilience planning as geopolitical risks grow. However, with the right strategy, Portugal is not only well-positioned to benefit from this moment but also to shape the global internet of the future.

The future is connected through cables, and many of those cables run through Portugal. The country has quietly built the infrastructure to become a digital gateway between continents, and now the world is starting to take notice. In the global race of digital transformation, Portugal is no longer just participating; it is leading the way.

Author

Paulo Lopes is a multi-talent Portuguese citizen who made his Master of Economics in Switzerland and studied law at Lusófona in Lisbon - CEO of Casaiberia in Lisbon and Algarve.

Paulo Lopes