These are important stories and help to project a modern image of the country. But the basis of the Portuguese economy continues to be, above all, in small and medium-sized enterprises: they are the ones that represent the majority of the business fabric, create jobs, boost local economies and sustain an essential part of national exports.

That is why the real challenge of Portugal's economic transformation does not depend only on attracting new investors or large industrial projects. It also depends on the ability of thousands of SMEs to keep up with the technological change that is redefining global industry. AICEP has precisely underlined this dimension: the external competitiveness of Portuguese companies increasingly involves innovation, digitalisation, qualification and the ability to respond to more demanding value chains.

Technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, data analytics, predictive maintenance or digital twins are no longer just for large organisations. They are becoming essential tools for smaller companies that want to produce better, reduce waste, gain efficiency and compete in international markets. The problem is that many small businesses still face significant obstacles: lack of investment, a shortage of digital skills, difficulty accessing technology, and less ability to reorganise internal processes.

This reality should not be seen only as a weakness. It should be understood as a strategic opportunity. It has never been more possible for a small Portuguese company to reach international customers through specialisation, innovation and technology. The proximity to European markets, the productive flexibility, the available talent and the connection to universities and technological centres create favourable conditions for Portugal to strengthen its position in sectors with greater added value.

At the same time, Europe is going through a phase of reindustrialisation and reconfiguration of production chains. Companies are looking for closer suppliers, more flexible partners, and technologically advanced solutions. Portugal can benefit from this trend, but only if it manages to accelerate the modernisation of its business fabric. Digitising does not just mean buying new machines or installing computer programs. It means rethinking processes, qualifying people, using data better, and creating a permanent culture of innovation.

The success of the Portuguese economy in the next decade will therefore depend on the ability of existing companies to grow, innovate and compete in an increasingly demanding global market. Large investments are important, but the country's true competitiveness will be measured when innovation is no longer an exception and becomes part of the daily lives of the thousands of small businesses that form the basis of our economy. In the end, the economic future of Portugal will be decided by the ability of SMEs to transform knowledge into productivity, growth and added value.