The Current Situation of the Metalworking Industry

Standing out as one of the largest exporters operating in Portugal, the metalworking industry holds a crucial position in the national economy. However, challenges such as the rising energy prices, supply chain vulnerability, and decreasing demand have negatively impacted the performance of companies in this sector.

Overcoming these obstacles is essential to ensure competitiveness and promote the continuous growth of the metalworking industry. Taking advantage of investment incentives is part of a strategy to recover or consolidate business operations.

In this regard, there are several incentives for production and innovation available to assist companies in maximizing their profits and capital.

Productive Innovation – Strengthening Production Capacity

The support measure for Productive Innovation presents a unique opportunity for companies needing to enhance their production capacity through investments in innovative activities. This initiative encourages business progress and provides an ideal occasion for analyzing and realizing strategic investments.

Regarding eligible expenses, this measure includes two different categories of assets that play fundamental roles in pursuing innovation.

  • Tangible Fixed Assets: acquisition of productive machinery and equipment, as well as investments in IT equipment, essential for modernizing processes and enhancing competitiveness.
  • Intangible Assets: technology transfers and licenses, and investments in software. Additionally, other expenses encompass construction of buildings and renovation works, engineering services, and intervention of certified accountants.

Technological Research & Development – New Products and Services

In a dynamic business environment, companies aiming to thrive and differentiate themselves in the market have access to the Research and Innovation Incentive (R&I). This strategic support targets companies seeking to develop new products and services, increase research and innovation intensity, promote cooperation among entities within the R&I System, strengthen team competencies, and enhance market positioning.

To access this support, companies in the metalworking industry can incur both direct and indirect costs. Direct costs include:

  • Investments in technical personnel dedicated to R&D activities;
  • Acquisition of patents, services from third parties including technical, scientific, and consulting assistance;
  • Purchase of scientific instruments and equipment;
  • Expenses related to travel and stays abroad directly attributable to the R&D project;
  • Certification process of the management system according to the NP 4457 standard.

Assume Leadership in the Metalworking Sector

By capitalizing on these investment incentives, companies in the metalworking sector will be able to overcome external environmental challenges, promote competitiveness, and achieve sustainable long-term growth.