Over 17% of businesses in Portugal already incorporate AI into their daily operations. This statistic is more than double the European average, which hovers around a modest 8%. Denmark, the current leader, employs AI in 24% of its business processes. But what is it that makes Portugal such a special case?

In 2021, Eurostat reported that the EU member states' average was steadily at 8% in the use of AI. However, Portugal surpasses this average by more than two times, standing out in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Eurostat;

Portugal's leadership isn't limited to AI alone. The country has made great strides in the field of information security. The same report highlights Portugal and Slovakia as the countries with the lowest number of information technology and communication (ICT) security incidents. Only 12% of Portuguese companies reported security incidents in 2021, with the EU average coming in at around 22%.

Eurostat emphasizes the importance of implementing sophisticated security measures to protect data and systems in today's volatile digital environment. After all, security is not just a luxury; it is a growing necessity in an increasingly connected world.

But Portugal's story isn't just about business. We are also leaders when it comes to consumer experience in online shopping. In 2022, only 6% of Portuguese consumers reported issues with their online purchases. This statistic is well below the EU average, which marks a significant 33%.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Eurostat;

These numbers make Portugal stand out, especially when compared to other developed countries where complaints in online shopping reach high levels, as is seen in Malta (66%), Luxembourg (59%), the Netherlands (56%), and Austria (53%).

In summary, Portugal stands at the forefront of the digital future of the European Union. Our leadership in AI adoption, information security, and the consumer experience online has positioned us at the heart of the ongoing technological revolution. As we continue to embrace innovation, it's exciting to think about how the digital future for this coastal nation will unfold.

Author

Paulo Lopes is a multi-talent Portuguese citizen who made his Master of Economics in Switzerland and studied law at Lusófona in Lisbon - CEO of Casaiberia in Lisbon and Algarve.

Paulo Lopes