The New Semiconductor Ecosystem in Portugal

The global economy is at a turning point where technological sovereignty has ceased to be a theoretical concept and has become the central axis of national security and economic competitiveness. At the heart of this transformation lie semiconductors, devices that constitute the digital heart of all modern technologies.

In Portugal, the publication of Ordinance no. 444/2025/1, on 15 December 2025, marks the operationalisation of an ambitious vision aimed at integrating the country into the European microelectronics elite. This regulation establishes the Incentive and Support System for Research, Development, and Innovation in the Semiconductor Sector.

The importance of this diploma is underscored by the magnitude of the semiconductor market, which is projected to double by the end of this decade, surpassing a market value of one trillion dollars.

The geostrategic context and the need for European resilience

The vulnerability of global supply chains was dramatically exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent geopolitical tensions. The chip shortage resulted in a significant reduction in production in critical sectors, such as automotive.

Currently, the European Union holds approximately 10% of the global semiconductor market share, a position the EU Chips Act aims to double to 20% by 2030. Portugal positions itself not only as a consumer of technology but as a vital node in the value chain of advanced semiconductors, design, and packaging.

Detailed analysis of Ordinance no. 444/2025/1: the new support framework

Ordinance no. 444/2025/1 approves the specific regulation allowing companies and entities in the R&D system to access funds to strengthen the microelectronics industry.

"Support takes the form of non-repayable grants, i.e., non-refundable funds intended to catalyse high-risk, high-technological value projects."

Implementation is the responsibility of the National Innovation Agency (ANI) and the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), ensuring coordination between the business and academic worlds.

Project typologies and eligibility

The incentive system focuses on Pillar 1 of the Initiative for European Integrated Circuits. Eligible projects must fit within the development objectives of cutting-edge semiconductor technologies and next-generation quantum technologies.

Entities that can benefit from this support include companies of any nature and legal form, as well as Non-Corporate Entities of the Research and Innovation System (ENESII), provided they are integrated into consortia or projects recognized by the European Partnership Chips Joint Undertaking (Chips JU).

Selection criteria and eligible expenses

The evaluation of applications is based on technical-scientific merit, the degree of innovation, and alignment with the National Strategy.

Eligible expenses include investment in tangible and intangible assets, qualified personnel, technical consulting services, and costs associated with the protection of intellectual property.

Talent and human capital: the challenge of specialisation

The growth of the semiconductor industry in Portugal faces a structural challenge: the shortage of specialised talent. It is estimated that the European industry will need 15,000 new qualified professionals in the coming years.

The National Strategy for Semiconductors foresees an increased focus on specialisation courses and talent exchange. Portugal's policy of openness to international talent is seen as a positive factor for maintaining and growing the R&D operations of global companies.

International partnerships and academic cooperation

Cooperation with leading countries, such as South Korea, has been identified as strategic for the Portuguese ecosystem. New partnerships between educational institutions aim at the exchange of technical knowledge and the training of human resources in microelectronics, essential for executing cutting-edge projects.

Sustainability and the future of "green factories"

Sustainable Future Fabs are becoming a priority, with the aim of creating more energy and environmentally efficient factories. Portugal can use its indigenous resources (renewable energies) to power a sustainable microelectronics industry, reducing the carbon footprint of energy-intensive components.

Implications for the industrial and vertical sector

The impact of Ordinance no. 444/2025/1 extends far beyond chip manufacturers. Several sectors are direct beneficiaries:

• Automotive: Development of new sensors and power control chips for autonomous and electric vehicles.
• Telecommunications: Integrated photonic circuits and chips for 5G/6G.
• Healthcare: Flexible microelectronics for wearable medical devices and biosensors.
• Defence and security: Strategic autonomy in the production of secure chips.

Conclusions and strategic recommendations

The new law to support R&D&I in the semiconductor sector is a catalyst for a new industrial era in Portugal. For companies in the sector, it is recommended to:

• Participation in consortia: Collaboration with R&D entities (e.g., INL, INESC MN).
• Focus on specialisation: Leveraging strengths in advanced packaging and integrated photonics.
• Investment in talent: Reskilling teams and attracting international specialists.
• Professional management of incentives: Ensuring rigorous compliance with eligibility rules.

With the new legislative framework, the country is better prepared to face the global technological race, ensuring economic resilience and digital sovereignty for decades to come.

Yunit Consulting: Together, let's make the Leap

Last update: 22/12/2025