{"id":999175,"date":"2026-06-01T22:29:22","date_gmt":"2026-06-01T22:29:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/999175\/"},"modified":"2026-06-01T22:29:22","modified_gmt":"2026-06-01T22:29:22","slug":"spains-fastest-growing-economy-renewables-exports","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/999175\/","title":{"rendered":"Spain&#8217;s fastest-growing economy: renewables, exports"},"content":{"rendered":"<p data-testid=\"article-description\">From high-speed rail and green energy to fashion and food technology, Spain is becoming increasingly relevant for Singapore businesses seeking new partnerships and growth opportunities<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">AS COMPANIES diversify their supply chains and rethink their global trade relationships, <a class=\"text-verticals-btblue underline hover:text-blue-500\" data-testid=\"article-annotation-link-component\" href=\"https:\/\/www.spainupyourlife.com\/en\/home?utm_source=content_ads&amp;utm_medium=print&amp;utm_content=the-business-times-advertorial&amp;utm_campaign=spainupyourlife-sg-2026\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Spain<\/a> is increasingly positioning itself as a strategic gateway for trade and investment, connecting Europe, Latin America and North Africa.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">This growing relevance is underpinned by Spain\u2019s broader economic momentum.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">In 2025, Spain recorded a provisional gross domestic product (GDP) of \u20ac1.6 trillion (S$2.38 trillion), cementing its position as the fourth-largest economy in the European Union (EU), after Germany, France and Italy.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">The same year, Spain\u2019s exports to Singapore totalled US$1.08 billion (S$1.38 billion), up from US$1.01 billion in 2019, when the EU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (EUSFTA) entered into force.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">The International Monetary Fund projects that the Spanish economy will grow by 2.1 per cent in 2026, above the eurozone average of 1.1 per cent.<\/p>\n<p>Infrastructure with global reach<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">For the fast-growing economies of South-east Asia, Spain\u2019s expertise in infrastructure and transport is particularly relevant.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">A world leader in high-speed rail (HSR), Spain operates the second-largest HSR network in the world and the largest in Europe.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Spanish companies have also been involved in building urban transport systems in cities such as Riyadh, London, Dubai, Sydney and Boston.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Notable international infrastructure projects built or managed by Spanish companies include Heathrow Terminal 2 and the Haramain High Speed Railway between Mecca and Medina \u2013 Spain\u2019s flagship international rail project, running some 450km across the desert.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">The country also ranks ninth globally in transport infrastructure.<\/p>\n<p>  <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/adca532ad4555037e7a9e090b91508d7ba26eee5ed61c7507541ba0c8e25a2f7.webp\" alt=\"\" height=\"760\" width=\"1140\" class=\"block max-w-full w-full\"\/> The new Gare de Mons station in Belgium was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. PHOTO: SPAIN UP YOUR LIFE  Building a renewable future<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">With a firm commitment to a green transition, Spain is uniquely positioned at the intersection of energy security, sustainability and industrial growth.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">The World Economic Forum has highlighted Spain as a clean technology and hydrogen hub, noting that the country accounts for around 20 per cent of the announced green hydrogen projects in the EU.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Its target of scaling green hydrogen production to 12GW by 2030 also reflects continued public support and investment in the sector.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Renewables generated approximately 55 per cent of Spain\u2019s electricity, well above the EU average of around 47 per cent.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Beyond the EU, Spanish companies such as Acciona Energ\u00eda already operate in dozens of countries and continue to expand their renewable capacity on a global scale.<\/p>\n<p>Premium exports and consumer brands<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Consumers in Singapore are likely familiar with Spanish food products such as Iberian ham, olive oil and wine. The country\u2019s favourable conditions for the production of food and beverages are complemented by tradition and technology, resulting in more than 370 quality and origin certifications that guarantee the authenticity and traceability of Spain\u2019s premium food products.<\/p>\n<p>  <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/f73dbccfb60d75832ff8fed0838e2aa28ad2a4c321d1f657eda61e38238606ef.webp\" alt=\"\" height=\"760\" width=\"1140\" class=\"block max-w-full w-full\"\/> Spain boasts a vibrant food scene, with premium products and a strong export orientation. PHOTO: SPAIN UP YOUR LIFE  <\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">This has translated into a strong structural export orientation. The country currently exports around \u20ac80 billion worth of food annually to more than 180 countries, backed by sophisticated logistics and distribution networks.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">This is partly enabled by the country\u2019s growing investment in food technology, sustainability and supply chain innovation, with an agri-tech sector comprising some 400 active companies.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Spain\u2019s emphasis on craftsmanship, technology and export competitiveness also extends beyond food into consumer sectors such as fashion, beauty and home furnishings.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">From traditional family workshops to large fashion groups capable of responding rapidly to international trends, the Spanish fashion industry combines craftsmanship with industrial scale.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Spain\u2019s fashion sector accounted for 2.9 per cent of the country\u2019s GDP in 2024, spanning apparel, textiles, footwear and accessories, underscoring its economic significance and continued growth.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Global fashion groups such as Inditex and Mango, which together account for 63 per cent of the country\u2019s fashion exports, have also helped strengthen the international profile of Spanish fashion, supporting a wider ecosystem of small and medium-sized brands recognised for their design, quality and creativity.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">In 2025, Spanish fashion exports exceeded \u20ac35 billion for the second consecutive year, driven by growth in clothing, cosmetics, jewellery and accessories. Companies such as Inditex exemplify an agile retail model with a highly integrated supply chain. On the other hand, luxury houses like Loewe and Balenciaga have rich histories and are also recognised for their craftsmanship and design innovation.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Spanish footwear, in particular, is widely exported and internationally recognised for combining artisanal craftsmanship with modern innovation. The sector is also increasingly embracing sustainable manufacturing practices and eco-friendly materials.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Sustainability and natural ingredients are becoming increasingly prominent within Spain\u2019s cosmetics and perfumery industry, alongside growing investments in environmentally conscious production and innovation. The sector has also emerged as a significant global player, with Spain ranking as the world\u2019s second-largest exporter of perfumes and among the leading exporters of cosmetics internationally.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Backed by strong capabilities in pharmacy, chemistry and dermatological research, Spanish companies continue to invest heavily in research and development to create advanced skincare and beauty formulations.<\/p>\n<p>  <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/6fc1bccc6d718ef884ee7e352c9fb1b75b7839963ce4d8c30d4dae928445a878.webp\" alt=\"\" height=\"760\" width=\"1140\" class=\"block max-w-full w-full\"\/> Spanish companies invest heavily in research and development for skincare and beauty products. PHOTO: SPAIN UP YOUR LIFE  <\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Alongside global manufacturers, Spain has also cultivated a growing ecosystem of niche beauty brands focused on quality, wellness and innovation, with Spanish cosmetic products now sold in more than 150 countries worldwide.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Spain\u2019s emphasis on design and innovation also extends into sectors such as home furnishings and interior design.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">In 2024, Spain ranked 11th among the world\u2019s leading furniture exporters, with a 4.5 per cent export share in the EU and 1.7 per cent globally.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">The sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience and export capacity, ending 2025 with a solid 5 per cent growth despite geopolitical uncertainty. Key indicators reflect an industry focused on the foreign market and domestic consumption that increasingly relies on digital channels.<\/p>\n<p>Talent as a competitive advantage<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Beyond the economy, Spain\u2019s robust digital infrastructure, healthcare system and quality of life are attracting global talent.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">According to InterNations\u2019 2025 results \u2013 one of the world\u2019s largest expat networking and community platforms \u2013 Spain ranked first in the EU and ninth globally as a destination for working abroad.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\">Spain\u2019s digital infrastructure also supports this growing talent ecosystem. The country is among European leaders in ultra-fast broadband coverage, facilitating remote work, digital industries and internationally connected businesses.<\/p>\n<p class=\"whitespace-pre-wrap break-words mb-4 md:mb-6\" data-testid=\"article-paragraph-component\"><a class=\"text-verticals-btblue underline hover:text-blue-500\" data-testid=\"article-annotation-link-component\" href=\"https:\/\/www.spainupyourlife.com\/en\/home?utm_source=content_ads&amp;utm_medium=print&amp;utm_content=the-business-times-advertorial&amp;utm_campaign=spainupyourlife-sg-2026\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Discover more about what Spain has to offer.<\/a><\/p>\n<p>  <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/ae9a3e4ffe3d2781acc5336fa104c801c39d99b0e1cef1a305e4167554e18840.webp\" alt=\"\" height=\"324\" width=\"763\" class=\"block max-w-full\"\/>  <\/p>\n<p class=\"font-lucida text-xl font-medium italic leading-normal -tracking-5% text-gray-850\">Decoding Asia newsletter: your guide to navigating Asia in a new global order. Sign up here to get Decoding Asia newsletter. Delivered to your inbox. Free.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"From high-speed rail and green energy to fashion and food technology, Spain is becoming increasingly relevant for Singapore&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":999176,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_share_on_mastodon":"0"},"categories":[5312],"tags":[84260,2000,299,18860,104],"class_list":["post-999175","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-spain","tag-branded-content","tag-eu","tag-europe","tag-foreign-investment","tag-spain"],"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@uk\/116677219769213836","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/999175","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=999175"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/999175\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/999176"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=999175"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=999175"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=999175"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}