Horse Economic Forum returns in July
The second edition of the Horse Economic Forum (HEF) is scheduled to take place on July 11 and 12 at the Alter Stud Farm (Coudelaria de Alter), in the district of Portalegre. This year’s event will focus on the economy related to the equestrian sector.
Organized by the Municipality of Alter do Chão, the forum aims—just as in its inaugural edition in 2023—to promote dialogue on emerging trends, innovation, sustainability, and business opportunities within the equestrian sector. The program will include meetings between experts, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and academics.
In 2023, the Horse Yearbook—a joint initiative by the Municipality of Alter do Chão and the HEF—estimated the economic impact of the equestrian sector in Europe at around €100 billion. The publication also reported the presence of approximately seven million horses across the european continent and the creation of 800,000 jobs directly associated with equine activities.
In the Portuguese context, the sector contributes roughly €25 million to the national economy. According to the Horse Yearbook, there are around 29,000 equine-related establishments in the country, a population of about 100,000 horses, and four officially recognized native breeds: Lusitano, Garrano, Sorraia, and the Terceira Pony. Data from the Portuguese Equestrian Federation indicated that more than one thousand certified trainers and around eight thousand registered athletes are active in Portugal.
This year’s event will also feature discussions on the role of equestrianism, the impact of international agro-equestrian events on trade and cultural relations, and successful case studies of diplomatic initiatives led by the equestrian sector.
The invitation is open: entrepreneurs, investors, and all stakeholders in the horse economy—both national and international—are encouraged to attend this landmark event, which is reshaping Portugal’s equestrian landscape and positioning Alter do Chão on the global stage of the horse economy.
Registrations HERE