“Currently, the algae industry in Portugal consists of 21 companies dedicated to macroalgae (cultivation, harvesting, processing, and applications) and 26 companies in the microalgae sector, covering areas from cultivation to engineering, consultancy, and commercialization,” stated the Portuguese Association of Algae Producers (PROALGA) in a response.
The production capacity varies among companies, starting from two tons of dry weight per year and reaching a maximum of 100 tons.
It is estimated that the majority of production (more than 90%) is destined for export, especially to European countries such as Spain, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, as well as Asian markets.
In the national market, issues are noted in terms of food literacy and the lack of incentives for introducing algae into the food chain.
Portuguese algae, in both national and international markets, are used in areas such as human food, supplements and health, cosmetics, agriculture, animal feed, and blue biotechnology.
According to data from Dun & Bradstreet, analyzed by PROALGA, the associated companies recorded a turnover of 9.2 million euros in 2023, considering both primary and secondary activities.
“The sector has experienced progressive growth since 2017, the year macroalgae cultivation began in Portugal, complementing decades of industrial microalgae production (since 1991). The trend indicates a significant expansion in the coming years, driven by investment in innovation, sustainability, and biotechnology,” it noted.
Leading national companies and producers include Allmicroalgae (Pataias), Necton (Olhão), ALGAplus (Ílhavo), Green Aqua Póvoa (Póvoa de Santa Iria), and Iberagar (Barreiro).
Portugal also has artisanal producers, specializing in Spirulina, such as Tomar Natural, Spirulina da Terra, 5essentia Spirulina Azores, and Spiralgae.
