Companies already established in Portugal remain optimistic about future investments, said Fabrice Lachize in an interview. He explained that while the current instability in France might slow decisions by new investors, it doesn’t impact those already operating in the Portuguese market.
“A company already established has no fears. Potential postponements of investments, not only in Portugal but in general, depend on the development of their business in France,” he stated.
The executive acknowledged that the French situation affects bilateral trade. “Consumption has decreased, and exports from Portugal to France have fallen,” he noted, highlighting that some sectors, like textiles and footwear, are suffering due to the French slowdown.
France has been embroiled in a political and social crisis, with Sébastien Lecornu recently appointed as the new Prime Minister, the fifth in three years.
Despite this, Fabrice Lachize emphasized that Portugal remains solid, with economic results that instill investor confidence.
“Looking at the country’s performance and the growth of the State Budget, there is no reason for concern,” he remarked, asserting that Portugal continues to be a safe destination for investment.
He pointed out that the French presence in sectors such as banking, credit, technology, and services remains strong, with groups like BNP Paribas, BPCE (which acquired Novo Banco), Cetelem, Cofidis, and others driving the Portuguese economy.
Fabrice Lachize believes that French investment could accelerate again once the internal situation in France stabilizes.
“France has the ability to respond, and the environment will again become favorable,” he concluded.
