On 29 April 2025, Lisbon hosted a historic event for the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP) with the official launch of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Cooperation of Lusophony and the Diasporas (CCICLD). This new organisation, presented at the CPLP headquarters in the Palácio Conde de Penafiel, is a non-profit association with the aim of strengthening business, commercial, cultural and industrial ties between Portuguese-speaking countries and their diasporas. Chaired by Paulo Sande, the CCICLD aims to consolidate itself as a strategic pillar for economic and social co-operation in the Lusophone area.
The event was supported by the Presidency of the Republic and the Government of Portugal, emphasising the importance of this initiative for the development of multilateral relations between Portuguese-speaking countries. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa took part in a video message, while the Secretary of State for Tourism, Pedro Machado, represented the Ministry of Economy at the ceremony. The launch also included a conference entitled "The Economic Value of Lusophone Diasporas", which brought together experts such as Neima Ferreira, from the African Bank and Lusophone Compact, and Salim Valimamade, from the Catholic University of Angola, to debate the impact of diasporas on the region's economic growth.
CCICLD aims not only to foster trade and investment between CPLP member states, but also to promote scientific and technological co-operation, creating an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship. The organisation has already outlined plans to establish partnerships with public institutions, universities, companies and international organisations, reinforcing its mission to connect citizens and entities from Portuguese-speaking countries. In addition, the Chamber plans to apply for observer membership of the CPLP, expanding its capacity for influence and collaboration in the Lusophone space.
This milestone reflects the growing importance of Lusophony as a space for economic and cultural opportunities, in line with the CPLP's economic agenda for 2027. For more information on the event and the objectives of the CCICLD, see Jornal Económico or the Inforpress.
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The Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Co-operation of Lusophony and the Diasporas (CCICLD) was created with the aim of promoting economic integration between Portuguese-speaking countries and their diasporas. This goal is achieved through the creation of business networks, strategic partnerships and initiatives that foster trade and investment between Portuguese-speaking nations. CCICLD aims to act as a catalyst for the internationalisation of Lusophone companies, linking entrepreneurs and institutions from countries such as Brazil, Portugal, Angola, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, East Timor, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Equatorial Guinea.
In addition, the organisation seeks to identify market opportunities and facilitate access to goods and services, promoting an environment favourable to economic development. This effort is complemented by the creation of partnerships with international and regional organisations, such as the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP), to consolidate the economic pillar of Lusophony. (Inforpress).
One of the fundamental pillars of the CCICLD is its commitment to scientific and technological co-operation between Portuguese-speaking countries. This endeavour aims to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, essential areas for the sustainable and competitive development of Lusophone economies. The Chamber of Commerce plans to establish collaborations with universities, research centres and technology companies to promote the transfer of knowledge and the development of innovative solutions.
The creation of a common database, such as "COMEX Data CPLP", is an example of how technology can be used to identify products and services with greater potential for economic success. This project, led by organisations such as FUNCEX Europe, aims to facilitate the analysis of business opportunities and improve trade connections between Portuguese-speaking countries. (e-Global).
Diasporas play a crucial role in CCICLD's strategy. The organisation recognises the economic and cultural potential of Lusophone communities around the world and aims to integrate them more actively into economic development initiatives. One of the first steps will be to map the diasporas, identifying entrepreneurs, companies and institutions that can help strengthen commercial and cultural relations.
The conference "The Economic Value of Lusophone Diasporas", held during the launch of the CCICLD, highlighted the importance of diasporas as agents of economic and cultural transformation. This event was attended by experts such as Neima Ferreira, Salim Valimamade and Bernardo Ivo Cruz, who discussed strategies for maximising the impact of diasporas on the development of Lusophone countries. (Jornal Económico).
The CCICLD intends to consolidate its position as an observer member of the CPLP, strengthening its links with this international organisation. This strategic alignment will allow the Chamber of Commerce to collaborate on joint initiatives that promote the economic, social and cultural development of Portuguese-speaking countries. In addition, the CCICLD plans to establish cooperation protocols with other chambers of commerce and organisations that share similar objectives.
The launch of the CCICLD at the CPLP headquarters in Lisbon symbolises the convergence of efforts between governments, companies and institutions to strengthen ties between Portuguese-speaking countries. The participation of leaders such as President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa and the Secretary of State for Tourism, Pedro Machado, demonstrates the political and institutional support for this initiative. (Inforpress).
In addition to its economic objectives, the CCICLD's mission is also to promote culture and security among Portuguese-speaking communities. The organisation recognises that culture is a unifying element that can strengthen ties between countries and their diasporas. To this end, the Chamber of Commerce plans to support cultural events, educational initiatives and projects that celebrate the diversity and cultural richness of Lusophony.
The valorisation of the Portuguese language as a central element of the cultural and economic identity of Lusophone countries is also a priority. The CCICLD aims to use Portuguese as a tool to facilitate communication, the exchange of ideas and co-operation between Lusophone nations. (News of the World).
CCICLD's priority is to attract investment to Portuguese-speaking countries by promoting their economies as attractive destinations for business and partnerships. The organisation plans to raise awareness among investors and entrepreneurs, highlighting the opportunities that exist in Portuguese-speaking markets. These actions include organising trade fairs, conferences and business missions to facilitate direct contact between investors and companies.
An example of success in this area is the work carried out by the Belgo-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce, which promotes the internationalisation of Portuguese and Brazilian companies to the Belgian market and attracts Belgian investment to Portugal and Brazil. This model can serve as an inspiration for similar initiatives led by the CCICLD. (MILhafre).
Although it is not a Portuguese organisation, the CCICLD was born in Portugal with the aim of serving all the Lusophone diasporas around the world. Its creation marks an important step in consolidating the CPLP's economic pillar and promoting co-operation between Portuguese-speaking countries. With a comprehensive vision that includes economic, cultural and social objectives, the CCICLD promises to be an engine of transformation for Lusophony. (Jornal Económico).
The Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Cooperation of Lusophony and the Diasporas (CCICLD) is headed by Paulo Sande, a lawyer and former political advisor to the President of the Portuguese Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, during his first term. The CCICLD's leadership reflects the intention to bring together experts with experience in public policy and international cooperation, ensuring strategic management geared towards the organisation's objectives. The organisational structure includes an Advisory Board, made up of members from different areas, such as economics, culture and international relations, who contribute to the formulation of strategies and initiatives.
The signing of the Pledge of Honour by the board members at the launch ceremony reinforces the ethical and professional commitment of the CCICLD leadership. This act symbolises the organisation's dedication to promoting cooperation between Portuguese-speaking countries and their diasporas. (Jornal Económico)
CCICLD aims to establish strategic partnerships with international organisations, public institutions, universities, companies and associations. Collaboration with the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP) is one of the fundamental pillars of its work. The Chamber has already expressed its intention to become an observer member of the CPLP, which will allow for greater integration with the community's objectives, such as the economic and cultural development of Portuguese-speaking countries.
In addition, the CCICLD plans to work together with organisations such as the African Development Bank and the Lusophone Compact, platforms that promote financing and economic growth in Portuguese-speaking African countries (PALOP). This endeavour aims to create synergies that benefit both the countries of origin and the diasporas. (CPLP)
One of the CCICLD's central objectives is to strengthen ties between the Lusophone diasporas and their countries of origin. The organisation recognises the crucial role of emigrant communities in the economic and cultural dynamism of Lusophone territories. To this end, CCICLD plans to implement programmes to support entrepreneurship in the diasporas, facilitating access to funding, training and networking.
In addition, the Chamber intends to organise events such as conferences and business fairs that promote the exchange of ideas and the creation of partnerships between entrepreneurs from the diasporas and Lusophone countries. One example is the conference "The economic value of the Lusophone Diasporas", held during the launch of the CCICLD, which was attended by experts such as Neima Ferreira, from Banco Africano, and Salim Valimamade, from the Catholic University of Angola. (Sapo Economy)
CCICLD's priority is to promote sustainable and innovative practices in the economic and industrial sectors of Portuguese-speaking countries. The organisation plans to collaborate with research centres and universities to develop projects that integrate clean technologies and sustainable solutions. This effort includes the creation of a common database to facilitate the identification of business opportunities and the analysis of markets.
In addition, the Chamber is committed to fostering the transfer of knowledge between Portuguese-speaking countries, encouraging the creation of startups and technology companies that can compete in global markets. This focus on innovation is aimed not only at economic growth, but also at reducing social and regional inequalities. (e-Global)
Valuing Lusophone culture is one of the CCICLD's pillars. The organisation recognises that culture is a unifying element that can strengthen ties between countries and their diasporas. In this sense, the Chamber aims to support cultural events, exhibitions and educational initiatives that celebrate the diversity and cultural richness of Lusophony.
During the launch of the CCICLD, an exhibition of paintings by Lino Damião was inaugurated on the theme of "Lusophony and Diasporas". This event symbolises the Chamber's commitment to promoting culture as a means of integration and cooperation between Lusophone communities. In addition, the CCICLD plans to create cultural exchange programmes involving young people from the diasporas, strengthening their connection with their cultural and linguistic roots. (Santiago Magazine)
The creation of the Lusophone and Diaspora Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Co-operation (CCICLD) represents a significant opportunity to boost the local economies of Portuguese-speaking countries. By promoting commercial and industrial partnerships, the CCICLD aims to create a favourable environment for sustainable economic growth. This endeavour includes facilitating foreign investment and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which often face difficulties in expanding their operations to international markets.
For example, the Mozambique-Portugal Chamber of Commerce has played a crucial role in promoting business between the two countries, and is a model that can be replicated in other Portuguese-speaking nations. These initiatives not only increase the flow of capital, but also create jobs and strengthen strategic sectors such as agriculture, energy and technology. (Diaspora Lusa)
The CCICLD recognises the importance of culture as a unifying element between Portuguese-speaking communities. The Portuguese language, spoken by more than 265 million people around the world, is one of the main cultural assets that connect these nations. The Chamber plans to support cultural events, such as exhibitions and festivals, that celebrate the diversity and cultural richness of Lusophony.
In addition, the organisation intends to promote cultural exchange programmes, especially among young people from the diasporas, to strengthen the link with their cultural and linguistic roots. This endeavour is fundamental to preserving cultural identity and promoting social cohesion between Portuguese-speaking countries. (Santiago Magazine)
Although the valorisation of diasporas has been addressed in previous reports, this segment focuses on the practical integration of emigrant communities in the economic development of their countries of origin. CCICLD plans to create digital platforms that connect entrepreneurs and investors from the diasporas with business opportunities in Portuguese-speaking countries. These platforms could include databases of investment projects, information on tax incentives and funding opportunities.
One successful example is the work of the British-Portuguese Chamber, which facilitates the entry of Portuguese companies into the UK market and vice versa. This model can be adapted to include other Portuguese-speaking communities, promoting internationalisation and strengthening local economies. (Diaspora Lusa)
CCICLD also intends to invest in education and knowledge transfer as pillars for sustainable development. The organisation plans to establish partnerships with universities and research centres to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in Portuguese-speaking countries. This effort includes the creation of technical and professional training programmes that meet the specific needs of each market.
In addition, the Chamber is exploring the possibility of creating a common database to share information on best practices and innovative solutions. This type of initiative is essential for reducing regional inequalities and increasing the competitiveness of Portuguese-speaking economies. (e-Global)
Tourism and the creative economy are sectors with great potential to boost the economic and cultural impact on Portuguese-speaking communities. The CCICLD plans to promote cultural tourism as a way of valorising the historical and natural heritage of Portuguese-speaking countries. This strategy includes the creation of tourist routes that connect different Lusophone countries, highlighting their cultural similarities and particularities.
In addition, the Chamber intends to support the creative economy by encouraging the production of cultural content, such as films, music and literature, which can be exported to international markets. These initiatives not only generate revenue, but also strengthen cultural identity and increase the global visibility of Lusophony. (Inforpress)
The creation of the Lusophone and Diaspora Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Co-operation (CCICLD) represents a significant milestone in promoting economic, cultural and social integration between Lusophone countries and their diasporas. With the aim of strengthening commercial and industrial relations, the CCICLD has emerged as a strategic platform for fostering partnerships, attracting investment and boosting the internationalisation of Lusophone companies. Collaboration with organisations such as the Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP) and investment in innovative tools, such as the "COMEX Data CPLP" database, stand out as essential initiatives for identifying market opportunities and boosting local economies. Furthermore, valuing diasporas, recognised as agents of economic and cultural transformation, reinforces the role of these communities in the sustainable development of their countries of origin (Inforpress).
CCICLD is also committed to promoting scientific and technological cooperation, the preservation of cultural identity and sustainability. Through partnerships with universities and research centres, the organisation plans to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, while promoting the transfer of knowledge between Portuguese-speaking countries. Valuing the Portuguese language as a unifying element and organising cultural and educational events are also priorities, strengthening ties between nations and their diasporas. With a comprehensive and multidimensional approach, the CCICLD positions itself as an engine of transformation for Lusophony, promoting not only economic growth, but also social cohesion and the global visibility of Lusophone cultural diversity (News of the World).
The next steps include consolidating strategic partnerships, implementing initiatives that integrate diasporas into economic development and creating programmes that stimulate cultural tourism and the creative economy. These efforts, combined with the political and institutional support shown at the launch of the CCICLD, underline the transformative potential of this organisation to strengthen ties between Portuguese-speaking countries and create a more integrated and prosperous future for the global Lusophone community (Jornal Económico).
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