A case study of how Norwegian companies in the maritime sector perceive Portugal’s competitiveness, a strategic perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to better understand Norwegian firms’ perception of the Portuguese strengths and weaknesses as a destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The focus will be on the Norwegian maritime industry, more specifically shipbuilding, repair and services. The first and uttermost importance of the study is to understand why Norwegian companies that have not invested in the Portuguese maritime industry might be reluctant to, and how the government can be advised to avoid similar pitfalls in the future. The single case study approach is utilized to understand the different aspects of the research questions. The data collection was performed through primary and secondary data. Three interviews were conducted with knowledgeable actors in the Norwegian maritime industry. The findings indicate there are areas for improvements and areas that can be further utilized and developed. The geographical location, natural resources, highly educated personnel, governmental emphasis, and excess capacity are found through primary and secondary data collection to be favorable aspects in the Portuguese maritime industry. The lack of skilled workers in production, regulatory complexity, macroeconomic instability, and difference in prosperity level between the Norwegian and Portuguese maritime industry, are found to be potential distortions. Recommendations are to develop the maritime industry through focus and regional development.

Date of Award	3 Jul 2014
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Nuno Cardeal (Supervisor)