Pedro Furtado emphasized the role of the Wine in Azores fair as a crucial business event for the Azores, highlighting its impact on the economy of Ponta Delgada and tourism promotion. The 18th edition of the fair, which is the largest business event in the Azores related to the wine sector, was inaugurated with the mayor's presence.
The Municipality's support for the initiative, according to Furtado, stems from recognizing its importance for economic development, the business opportunities it provides, and its ability to attract entrepreneurs, professionals, and visitors during a period of traditionally lower tourist influx. "Wine in Azores is much more than an event to promote wines and gastronomy. It is a privileged space for entrepreneurs to meet, create business opportunities, and enhance our economy," he stated.
Pedro Furtado recalled that the fair originated in Ponta Delgada and that the Municipality played a decisive role in its return, recognizing its growth potential from the outset. "This commitment represents, above all, a vote of confidence in our entrepreneurs and recognition for their daily contribution to wealth creation and the development of Ponta Delgada," he stressed.
The presence of national and international brands, alongside Azorean companies and products, was also highlighted, considering that this interaction fosters contacts, experience sharing, and new commercial partnerships. The mayor also emphasized the fair's contribution to combating tourism seasonality, as it takes place at a time when it is important to stimulate economic activity and enhance the destination's attractiveness.
Joaquim Coutinho, President of the Nenúfar Intuitivo Association, responsible for the organization, highlighted the decisive role of the Ponta Delgada Municipal Council in the event's continuity and affirmation, especially in the face of a lack of other support. Coutinho acknowledged that without the Municipality's commitment, the event would hardly have reached its current scale.
Pedro Furtado congratulated the organization for the initiative's journey and growth, reiterating the importance of integrating major events into the municipality's economic and tourism development strategy. The opening session also included an address by the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, and the presence of the Regional Secretary for Education, Culture and Sport, Sofia Ribeiro, the Regional Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs and Communities, Paulo Estêvão, and the President of the Ponta Delgada Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gualter Couto.
