03 Aug The Cross-border Dynamics Observatory Barometer analyses the evolution of innovation and the business fabric across the cross-border territory
The Rio Minho Barometer provides an analysis of the evolution of the business fabric and Research and Development (R&D) activity across the territory of the Rio Minho EGTC between 2015 and 2024, identifying the main trends shaping the economic dynamics of the cross-border region.
During this period, the territory recorded an overall increase of 16.6% in the number of companies, rising from 38,374 to 44,731. This growth was mainly driven by the performance of Alto Minho, where the number of companies increased by 23.1%, while the Galician side registered a 1.3% decrease. At present, around 77% of all companies in the territory are located on the Portuguese side.
The analysis also reveals an increase in business density, which rose from 104.16 to 120.75 companies per 1,000 inhabitants, reflecting stronger economic dynamism across the territory.
In terms of innovation, the number of companies engaged in Research and Development (NACE Rev. 2 – Division 72) remained broadly stable, increasing from 32 to 33 companies between 2015 and 2024. However, different trends emerged on either side of the border: Portugal increased from 19 to 25 companies, while Galicia declined from 13 to 8.
The study also highlights a strong concentration of R&D activity in a limited number of municipalities. In Alto Minho, Viana do Castelo and Ponte de Lima account for 64% of the companies operating in this sector. In Galicia, O Porriño and Tui represent 75% of all Research and Development companies.
The Rio Minho Barometer is a monitoring tool for the economic and territorial dynamics of the cross-border area. It provides information that supports strategic planning, public policy development and a deeper understanding of the territory.
Read the full report: Chapter 3 – Innovation and Economic and Business Development.
This Barometer is part of the Cross-border Dynamics Observatory publication series, an initiative developed within the Rede de Governança do Rio Minho (REDE_GOV_MINHO) project, co-funded by the European Union through the Interreg Spain–Portugal (POCTEP) 2021–2027 programme.
The two previously published chapters are available in the Publications section of the Rio Minho EGTC website or can be downloaded directly through the following links:
Chapter 1 – Territory, Population and Housing
Chapter 2 –Health
