The diversification of markets is fundamental to increase the competitiveness of Portuguese SMEs.
As the main strategy to support internationalization in the Asian market, AEP, through the project Next Challenge Asia, bets on promoting knowledge, training of SMEs and communication with the markets of Japan, South Korea and China.
Focusing on the Agro-Food, Home, Infrastructures (Water and Energy), and Construction Materials industries, this project aims to support the internationalization of Portuguese SMEs, encouraging them to invest in the development of an international business culture, geared to meet the emerging challenges and opportunities of high-potential Asian markets.

Companies and entrepreneurs in the sectors:

• Agro-food;
• Housing;
• Infrastructure (Water and Energy);
• Construction Materials.

AEP is available to support and increase the internationalization efforts of Portuguese companies, with the main objective of diversifying markets and products.
The diversification of markets will allow SMEs the following advantages:

• Increased economic benefit;
• Improved brand image in the global market;
• Improved positioning in new markets;
• Increased ability to deal with change;
• Alternatives to market saturation;
• Utilization of resources;
• Less dependence on the internal market;
• Creating synergies with international partners through joint ventures, leading to integration into global value chains.