Talent and entrepreneurial spirit are driving investment in Porto, says Mayor Rui Moreira
In an interview to the British magazine Real FDI, the Mayor of Porto emphasized the vital role of talent and entrepreneurial spirit in sustaining the city's economic health
Recently, Porto's Mayor, Rui Moreira, was interviewed by the British magazine Real FDI about the city's participation in MIPIM 2025, which took place in March.
"We produce highly skilled and qualified labour force, which we are not able to retain. It’s a double loss: we have been paying for their education, and then we don´t reap the profit of the fruit that has been on our trees" regretted Rui Moreira, highlighting the emigration of young graduates from local schools and universities in pursuit of better career prospects.
The Mayor emphasized that the primary strategy involves persuading foreign companies to establish job opportunities in Porto, ensuring that local talent remains within the city.
"Why hire Portuguese engineers to work in Germany, why don´t you start your offices in Porto instead?" the mayor pointed out, referring to the many companies that have set up operations in the city in recent years.
Acknowledging the challenge of competing with salaries offered in other European countries, Rui Moreira stated that the Municipality has been actively working within its scope to attract young professionals. According to the Mayor, the strategy also includes initiatives to provide more affordable housing.
Double strategy:
As highlighted in Real FDI's article, Porto's dual strategy - attracting investors while promoting affordable housing - has been proven effective. The city has witnessed substantial foreign direct investment in its digital and technological ecosystem, with major corporations such as Natixis, Volkswagen, and BMW establishing a presence.
Rui Moreira highlighted that Porto's university infrastructure and its thriving start-up ecosystem are key drivers of the city's economic growth. He also underscored the significant role tourism has played in shaping the city´s economic transformation.
While representing Porto at MIPIM in Cannes last March, the Mayor was honored with the fDi Intelligence award, acknowledging the city's strategic approach to attracting foreign direct investment.
