The Portuguese National Institute of Statistics revealed that the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the country grew 1.6% during the last quarter of 2013, in homologous terms. Compared to the previous quarter, GDP rose by 0.5% in real terms, representing a steady growth for the third consecutive quarter.
Furthermore, according to early estimates of the statistical cabinet of the European Union (EU), the Portuguese GDP is above the average of the euro area and the EU in the same period, reported Lusa Agency.
Among other interesting facts about the Portuguese economy, highlights the increase in exports of footwear industry in 8% over last year. The contribution of this sector to the trade balance is 1.3 billion euros at present, as indicated in a statement of the Portuguese Association of Industrial Footwear, Components, Leather Goods and their Substitutes (APICCAPS).
Similarly, exports of the furniture sector increased by 11% during 2013, a new “record” for the industry, said the Portuguese Association of Furniture Industry and Related (APIM). Sales in nearly 130 markets totalize 1.2 billion euros.
In addition, the European Automobile Manufacturers Association announced that Portugal recorded a sales increase in the order of 31.8% in January, the second country with the biggest increase in sales of light passenger cars of the European Union.
[photo credit: Glyn Lowe Photoworks]
