Portugal accelerates technological sovereignty: new support framework for semiconductors opens the door to strategic investment.

Portugal has taken a decisive step in consolidating its microelectronics ecosystem with the entry into force of Ordinance no. 444/2025/1, on 15 December 2025. This diploma operationalises the Incentive and Support System for Research, Development, and Innovation in the Semiconductor Sector, establishing the necessary financial framework to execute the National Strategy approved by the Government.

At a time when digital sovereignty is the central axis of European competitiveness, Portugal is positioning itself to capture a relevant share of a global market expected to exceed one trillion dollars by 2030.

The new regulation, managed in partnership by the National Innovation Agency (ANI) and the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), focuses on awarding non-repayable grants to projects of high technological value.

The goal is clear: to strengthen the capacity for the design, manufacturing, and packaging of advanced chips, aligning the country with the EU Chips Act, which aims to double the European market share to 20% by the end of the decade.

Resilience and specialisation: the Portuguese asset

The vulnerability of supply chains, exposed by the global shortage of components which reduced EU automotive production by one-third, requires a structural response.

"Portugal is not starting from scratch: the Microelectronics Agenda, co-funded by the RRP, has already reached an execution rate of 80%."

Portugal is not starting from scratch: the Microelectronics Agenda, co-funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP) with an investment of 68 million euros, has already reached an execution rate of 80%, with 90% of the 26 new products, processes, and services entering the final phase.

The Amkor unit in Vila do Conde, recognised as the largest final chip packaging factory in Europe, is a key strategic asset for the automotive and industrial industries.

In parallel, the participation of the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) in European pilot lines and the EU Chips Act Design platform guarantees national companies access to cutting-edge tools and top-tier intellectual property.

Incentives and Human Capital: the path for SMEs

The incentive system now regulated covers everything from industrial research to the creation of pilot lines and advanced training. Eligibility extends to SMEs and large companies, encouraging copromotion regimes with universities and technological centres.

This financial effort is accompanied by a commitment to talent training, as the European industry estimates a need for 15,000 new specialists to respond to the sector's expansion.

For companies looking to enter or consolidate their market position in the semiconductor sector, Yunit Consulting positions itself as a strategic partner in the management of financial and tax incentives.

Through the use of tools such as SIFIDE and Portugal 2030 investment support simulators, the consultancy supports the capitalisation of R&D projects, ensuring that public incentives translate into real competitiveness in the global market.

With the publication of this new law, Portugal not only ensures compliance with Brussels guidelines but also creates the conditions for innovation generated in laboratories to reach industrial scale, consolidating the country as a vital node in the semiconductor value chain in Europe.

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