Porto strengthens economic and investment ties with the United States
Growing American presence and connectivity reinforce Porto’s international positioning
Porto continues to strengthen its relationship with the United States, driven by investment flows, tourism growth and expanding air connectivity.
During a visit by Lindsey Zuluaga from the US Embassy to the Porto City Council, Hugo Beirão Rodrigues, the Councilor for Economy and Entrepreneurship, highlighted the growing role of American companies in the city’s economy.
Porto is increasingly positioning itself as a hub for innovation and technology, supported by a dynamic ecosystem of startups, research centres and international companies. Today, around 40 US companies are established in the city, reinforcing its attractiveness as a destination for foreign direct investment.
At the same time, the United States has become a key tourism market for the region. In 2025, the Porto and North region accounted for 21.1% of all overnight stays by American tourists in Portugal, contributing significantly to the international visibility and economic performance of the territory.
At the same time, the United States has become a key tourism market for the region. In 2025, the Porto and North region accounted for 21.1% of all overnight stays by American tourists in Portugal, contributing significantly to the international visibility and economic performance of the territory.
The meeting also explored opportunities to deepen cooperation across areas such as technology, academic partnerships, internationalisation and investment promotion, as well as tourism development and seasonality mitigation.
As connections with the United States continue to deepen, Porto is well positioned to unlock new opportunities for investment, collaboration and sustainable growth on a global scale.
