Investment in supporting the blue economy and, in particular, the blue bioeconomy in Portugal is gaining prominence with the Mar 2030 and Compete 2030 programs, which provide substantial funds to promote the sustainable development of the sector. The Mar 2030 Program, specifically aimed at fisheries and aquaculture, has a considerable budget of €539.89 million. With an emphasis on four main areas, including sustainable fishing, innovative aquaculture, the processing of marine products, and the protection of marine biodiversity, this program aims to strengthen and modernize the sector.

Aquaculture stands out, with substantial support of around €94 million until 2027. Combined with the simplification of procedures for obtaining aquaculture activities, this context aims to provide legal certainty to investors and aquaculture establishments, promoting the sustainable growth of the sector.

Mar 2030 has 17 open calls for economic operators in the fisheries, aquaculture, processing of fishery and aquaculture products, support for the protection and restoration of biodiversity and marine ecosystems, and implementation of the Integrated Maritime Policy sectors. With an impressive financial package of over €170 million, these tenders offer attractive support rates, ranging from 40% to 100%, depending on the nature of the operation. On the other hand, Compete 2030, with a broader scope, has a budget allocation of €3.9 billion and focuses on strengthening innovation and digital transition, climate transition, human capital, and business competitiveness. These strategic axes aim to promote sustainability and competitiveness in the global context. This program currently has eight open calls for proposals, with a particular focus on supporting productive innovation and the internationalization of SMEs or R&D.

These instruments are crucial for strengthening Portugal’s position in the blue bioeconomy, promoting innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness. These initiatives are expected to boost the growth of the maritime sector, transforming it into an essential component of the national economy, in line with the principles of the circular economy and environmental preservation.