Portugal with its 10 million inhabitants is a relatively small market. However, the Portuguese economy has made great strides since joining the European union in 1986. Portugal has instituted a wholesale restructuring of its economy, using public sector privatisation and private sector modernisation to open its domestic markets to increased external competition and direct foreign investment. Major foreign companies are being attracted by one of the world's most stable and lucrative sites for foreign investment. A massive privatisation program has reinvigorated a host of Portuguese companies. The success of the privatisation program together with deep economic reforms have created a stable environment to do business.

Consistency and continuity of economic policies have enabled Portugal to move towards the EU mainstream. Portugal is a country in transition and the Portuguese are resilient people with sufficient experience to address new challenges confidently. Although possible bureaucratic difficulties and start-up problems may diminish early enthusiasm, Portugal's favourable business environment and many new opportunities can provide large rewards in the long run.

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