The ‘Future of Microelectronics and Semiconductors in Portugal’ conference took place on April 8 at the PCI · Creative Science Park Aveiro Region, bringing together key stakeholders from academia, industry, and public institutions to discuss the strategic development of the sector.
Organized as a platform for dialogue on Portugal’s semiconductor ecosystem, the event marked the transition from strategic planning to implementation in the Central Region. It gathered decision-makers, researchers, and companies to address challenges and opportunities in a field considered critical for Europe’s technological competitiveness.

Among the highlights of the program was a roundtable discussion focused on industrialization and talent, moderated by Francisco Rodrigues (PICAdvanced). The panel featured Susana Cardoso de Freitas from INESC MN, alongside representatives from PETsys Electronics and Sparc Foundry.

The discussion emphasized several key challenges facing the sector over the next decade, including:

• accelerating the industrialization of innovation
• improving access to advanced technologies
• strengthening collaboration between large companies and SMEs
• ensuring scale and integration into global value chains
• attracting and retaining qualified talent

Artificial intelligence was highlighted as a transformative driver, with a direct impact on the design and development of new microelectronic products.

The debate also reinforced the idea that Portugal already possesses the necessary expertise, critical mass, and ambition to strengthen its position in microelectronics. In particular, the Central Region — and the Aveiro innovation ecosystem — were identified as central to this growth trajectory.

Overall, the conference underscored the importance of coordinated action between research institutions, industry players, and policymakers to ensure that Portugal can effectively compete in the global semiconductor landscape.

_{*Photo credit: InovaRia}