The Regional Director for Support to the Investment and Competitiveness highlighted on São Miguel Island the "very important" role of the Subsystem for the Internationalisation of Azorean companies in supporting the export of products. According to him, this measure has registered "a huge adherence," thus demonstrating the relevance of this subsystem for regional exporting companies.
Ricardo Medeiros spoke on the sidelines of a visit to Quintal dos Açores, a company dedicated, among other things, to the production of jams and jellies that exports the vast majority of its products. It is one of the beneficiaries of the support measures for the export of products outside the Region.
As the Regional Director noted, "279 applications amounting to more than 21 million Euros have already been submitted under the Internationalisation Subsystem." This figure is "quite significant" not only in terms of direct support to companies, but also in terms of encouraging the production of regional products and their certification as Azores Brand products.
The increase in consumption of Azores Brand products has contributed to double-digit sales growth since its launch. According to information released from Azores Regional Statistics Service (SREA), "it has also contributed to the change in the retail food sales index. As of July, it registered a positive year-on-year change of 3.05% at constant prices and a quarterly year-on-year increase of 3.85%," stated Ricardo Medeiros.
According to SREA data, these figures adjusted for seasonal and calendar effects are likewise positive, with an increase of 4.16% over the average variation of the last 12 months and of 0.13% in the monthly variation.
"The increased consumption of Azorean products and those bearing the Azores Brand seal, the support measures for restaurants and hotels, and the incentives created for all Azorean companies have been a very assertive strategy adopted by the Government," said the Regional Director.
For Ricardo Medeiros, the current economic dynamics has decisively contributed to job creation and sustainability of regional companies as well as to the development of the Azores.
"In this context, we will continue developing measures such as this one in order to create unique opportunities for our companies and entrepreneurs," stated the Regional Director.