This event, part of a broader roadshow across several French cities, aimed to position Portugal as a top destination for international business and investment. The initiative comes as a strategic effort by AICEP to boost Portugal’s economic footprint on the global stage, focusing specifically on strengthening ties with key European markets like France.


Collaborating with France's Business Elite

The event was organized in collaboration with MEDEF International and the regional MEDEF in Paris, representing France’s largest business federation. MEDEF (Mouvement des Entreprises de France) advocates for over 200,000 companies through its extensive network of 100 federations and 420 professional unions. This partnership enabled the event to attract a range of key stakeholders from the French business community, including top corporations like Thales, Eiffage, Engie, GAN, Geosat, NGE, Avantor, Natixis, and SNEF.

The gathering saw participation from approximately 30 French companies and institutions, as well as influential representatives from MEDEF International, French External Trade Advisors, and officials from France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The high-profile attendance underscored the growing interest of French businesses in the opportunities that Portugal offers as a rising investment hub.


Driving Investment and Bilateral Cooperation

AICEP’s initiative in Paris aligns with its broader goal of promoting Portugal as a competitive, attractive destination for foreign investment. The agency's mission focuses on encouraging productive investments and driving the internationalization of Portuguese businesses. By fostering stronger economic ties between Portugal and key foreign markets, such as France, AICEP aims to increase Portuguese exports and expand the international presence of national companies.

The Paris event, therefore, was much more than a networking opportunity; it provided a crucial platform for dialogue between Portuguese and French business leaders. The goal was clear: facilitate partnerships, exchange knowledge, and explore mutually beneficial opportunities. In particular, the event highlighted Portugal’s potential in sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, and digital innovation—areas where the country has seen rapid growth.


Looking Forward: The Impact of AICEP’s Efforts

This Paris event represents just one stop in AICEP’s larger roadshow across France. By targeting multiple cities, AICEP is maximizing exposure to various regions of France, ensuring a diverse range of potential investors are informed about the unique advantages of doing business in Portugal.

Ultimately, this initiative is expected to generate significant outcomes, such as increased visibility for Portugal as an investment destination, new strategic alliances between Portuguese and French companies, and a strengthening of the bilateral economic relationship between the two nations.

AICEP’s continued efforts in promoting Portugal on the international stage are vital for the country’s economic growth, particularly in a rapidly globalizing world where competition for investment is fierce. As Portugal solidifies its position at the forefront of digitalization and sustainable growth, events like these play an essential role in securing the country’s economic future.

Author

Paulo Lopes is a multi-talent Portuguese citizen who made his Master of Economics in Switzerland and studied law at Lusófona in Lisbon - CEO of Casaiberia in Lisbon and Algarve.

Paulo Lopes