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METALWORKING

Portuguese engineering. International ambition.

A sector with strong production and technological capabilities, where specialisation, innovation and quality create the conditions to compete in international markets.

Portuguese engineering. International ambition.
ABOUT THE SECTOR

From metal processing to complete equipment.

The metallurgy and metalworking sector in northern and central Portugal brings together capabilities ranging from metal processing to the development of components, tools, machinery and equipment. Its diverse production base serves industries such as automotive, energy, construction and transport.

Experience and adaptation

Industrial experience is combined with technical expertise and adaptability. Companies supply everything from precision parts to complete equipment, contributing at every project stage, from design and prototyping to manufacturing, assembly and technical support.

Cooperation and industrial scale

Close links between manufacturers, suppliers, technology centres and training organisations encourage cooperation and complementary capabilities. Flexible production and tailored solutions help companies serve both domestic and international customers.

In 2024, the sector comprised 10,807 companies and employed 158,658 people across the two regions. With approximately EUR 22.9 billion in turnover and EUR 6.4 billion in gross value added, it forms a significant part of Portugal’s industrial base.

IN 2024

Key figures for 2024

The metallurgy and metalworking sector has a significant business and economic presence in the North and Centre regions.

10 807

Companies

158 658

People employed

22,9billion €

Turnover

6,4billion €

Gross value added

74,7%

Share of national employment in the sector

INE— Integrated Business Accounts System, using sector statistical summaries from the Directorate-General for Economic Activities, published on the GEE portal. Geographic breakdown tables. January 2026 publications with 2024 data.

AREAS OF ACTIVITY

Sectors within the industry

PROJECT AGENDA

Upcoming events.

Keep up with the upcoming events in the project agenda.

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MASTER EXPORT 2.0 Events
20/11/2026Modality: In person

MASTER EXPORT 2.0 Launch Event

The launch event for MASTER EXPORT 2.0 marks the beginning of a new journey focused on internationalisation and strengthening companies’ export capacity. The session will introduce the project’s objectives, planned activities and opportunities to take part, bringing together businesses, partners and support organisations around the ambition of reaching new markets. It will be an opportunity to meet and exchange views on the challenges of international expansion, the importance of preparing businesses and the role of cooperation in identifying business opportunities. The initiative aims to bring participants together, encourage new contacts and lay the foundations for active participation in the project. With this launch, MASTER EXPORT 2.0 invites companies to take the next step in their internationalisation journey, turning knowledge, contacts and ambition into opportunities for growth.

DIGITAL LIBRARY

Decision-making insights

Studies and resources to support decisions in target markets.

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THE TWO SECTORS

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A fileira do Habitat complementa esta capacidade.
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