Country Report: Portugal

Turning the Page

Portugal experienced the best economic growth in a decade in 2017, up 1.2% on the previous year to 2.9%, and the Bank of Portugal reports 2018 will see 2.8% growth. Adalberto Campos Fernandes, the minister of health, comments, "We are performing favorably; we see remarkable GDP growth, low rates of unemployment, and enjoy a more stable budget (...) These steps forward contrast sharply with the difficult period between 2011-2014."

Further evidence on an economic revival includes healthcare spending growing to 8.9% of GDP-which lags behind more developed EU economies such as France and Switzerland, but aligns closely with Northern Europe and Scandinavia. Manuel Heitor, the minister of science and technology, explains that the entire life sciences sector stands to benefit, and a change in strategy will drive progress in science. "Portugal has since diverged from the European averages to show an increase in R&D and innovation. The official data is clear: public expenditure in R&D increased by EUR 40 million (USD 46 million) last year, and private spending increased by EUR 90 million (USD 105 million)."

Critics explain that the resurgence is primarily due to continued favorable international investment conditions, whereby fiscal incentives, a highly skilled talent pool, and a good quality of life have attracted foreign investment and increased private sector consumption.

To view the full article on Portugal's pharma and healthcare markets, produced by Focus Reports and featured in Pharm Exec's August 2018 issue, click here. 

To preview and purchase other in-depth global Phama Reports, highlighting several countries and emerging markets, please visit www.industrymatter.com/reports