Portugal is fast emerging as a leading European destination for digital infrastructure, as an influx of global investment transforms the country into a vibrant hub for data centre development.
Once seen as a peripheral market, Portugal is now being recognised for its strategic advantages, sustainability focus, and skilled workforce — positioning it as a frontrunner in Europe’s growing digital economy.
The CTS Group, which specialises in data centres, has embarked on a new state-of-the-art production complex in Viana do Castelo.
Covering more than 21,000 square metres, the facility is set to employ around 500 people initially, with the group aiming to create over 2,000 jobs nationwide by the end of the decade.
The site’s proximity to the port and its integration within a well-established industrial network made Viana do Castelo an ideal location.
The new centre, developed in collaboration with multinational partner Eaton, is expected to begin operations in early 2026.
Paul Stannard, Chairman and Founder of Portugal Pathways and the Portugal Investment Owners Club, said: “Portugal’s growing reputation as a data centre hub is underpinned by several key factors: its Atlantic position, strong fibre connectivity through intercontinental submarine cables, and access to abundant renewable energy.
“These conditions have encouraged international investors to commit to long-term projects, often through the Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme, reshaping the national technology landscape.”
In Sines, the ambitious Start Campus development stands out as a symbol of Portugal’s ambition.
Envisioned as one of Europe’s largest data campuses, the site will host six independent buildings across 60 hectares, providing up to 1.2 gigawatts of capacity.
Entirely powered by renewable energy and cooled using seawater systems, the Sines project embodies the sector’s sustainability goals.
Meanwhile, Lisbon continues to anchor Portugal’s role in international digital connectivity.
Global operator Equinix recently unveiled LS2, a €50 million data centre designed to meet rising demand for colocation and cloud services, strengthening Portugal’s role as a bridge between Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
A third Equinix facility is already in the pipeline for 2027, demonstrating sustained confidence in the capital’s digital infrastructure potential.
Economic projections are equally striking: the data centre industry could add up to €26 billion to Portugal’s GDP by 2030 and generate around 50,000 high-skilled jobs.
Beyond its direct economic benefits, the sector is reinforcing Portugal’s credentials as a magnet for innovation, foreign investment, and regional development — offering new opportunities in cities and regions traditionally outside the tech spotlight.
About Portugal Pathways
Portugal Pathways has supported hundreds of Golden Visa residency-by-investment applications and provides expert guidance through its professional supply chain network on estate planning, wealth management, Golden Visa and tax optimisation, including post-NHR / IFICI tax regime planning, as well as private healthcare, money transfers and bespoke relocation and luxury real estate solutions to enhance life and investment in Portugal
About Portugal Investment Owners Club
The Portugal Investment Owners Club, or P Club for short, is a unique investor membership community designed for discerning individuals, families, and organisations committed to exploring and capitalising on life in Portugal and enjoying money-can't-buy experiences and exclusive events.
Disclaimer: The information on the Portugal Pathways and Portugal Investment Owners Club (P Club for short) websites and in email communications is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, or financial advice. You should consult and check with a qualified professional advisor before relying on any information provided on this website or in email communications. As it relates to investments in Golden Visas or other wealth management solutions offered by regulated and professional advisors, it is important to note that past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Private equities can be highly illiquid and come with risk and should always be under professional independent advice. Golden Visa investments need to be held for 6 to 7 years to allow for permanent citizenship/passport in the EU.
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