2025-02-19 15:19:00
Spanish agricultural feeding exports scored a new record last year with the olive oilHim wineTHE pork and the citrus as main engines and Balance at the end of the year of 75,090 million euros5.8% more than 2023, as reported on Wednesday by the Minister of Agriculture, Luis Planas, in an apparition to the congress. The minister, who qualified for the “tremendously positive” data, highlighted the position of Leadership that Spain is practiced in food agri. And he took the opportunity to remember that the agreement reached between the European Union and Mercosur is “a great opportunity”, since it means opening, he said: “a 268 million consumers tariff market to very competitive Spanish products.
In fact, the Mercosur option is that it has insisted flat in recent weeks to compensate for the impact that could have on Spanish agricultural exports the possible increase in rates by the Donald Trump administration. As the minister has already explained, the agreement with the Mercosur countries provides that, for example, the 35% rates that are now applied to wine “have gradually descended, so that it is increasingly interesting to be able to export there”.
In his parliamentary discourse, the Planas stressed that in 2024 the The economic growth of the agricultural sector was 8.5%More than five points above the entire Spanish economy. He also remembered that Spain is The EU country with the highest agricultural income32,759 million euros, 14.2% more than 2023. Employed rental He also reached a historical record of 45,980 euros, with an increase of 12.6% compared to the previous year – 9.2% if the inflation is obvious. The vigor of the sector, continued the minister, is the result of the “great work done by farmers, farmers, fishermen, agri -food industry and cooperatives”. Thus are the public policies of the government, the head of agriculture underlined, which, for example, ensured it In two years he mobilized 4,000 million euros in aid face the difficulties for drought and war in Ukraine.
Finally, the minister highlighted the National Food Strategy (ENA), recently presented, as the document that must be guided to achieve as the first objective to guarantee the Food offer to the populationproduced in a sustainable way and which are healthy. For this, innovation is necessary and underlined that Spain is the European country with the most research projects in that area, 256, which must serve to ensure that food in Spain is known for quality and diversity.
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Spanish Agri-Food Exports Hit Record High: An Expert Weighs In
Time.news: Spain’s agricultural sector is booming! Recent figures show a record-breaking year for agri-food exports. to dissect these impressive numbers and understand what they mean for the future, we spoke with Dr. Elena Ramirez, a leading agricultural economist specializing in international trade and Spanish agri-business. Dr. Ramirez, thanks for joining us.
Dr. Ramirez: It’s my pleasure to be here.
time.news: Let’s jump right in. The Minister of Agriculture announced a staggering €75.09 billion in agri-food exports in 2024. What’s behind this surge in Spanish agri-food exports?
dr.Ramirez: Several factors are contributing to this success. Firstly, the specific strengths of key export products are undeniable.Olive oil,wine,pork,and citrus,as highlighted in the report,are all highly sought-after internationally. Spain has developed a strong reputation for quality and consistency in these areas. Secondly, the overall economic growth of the agricultural sector at 8.5%, substantially outpacing the national average, demonstrates a robust and innovative industry. Government support, including the €4 billion mobilized to address drought and the impact of the war in Ukraine, has also played a critical role. improvements in productivity, efficient farming practices, and strategic export initiatives have definitely boosted export volumes.
Time.news: The article mentions a potential “great opportunity” in the Mercosur agreement and concerns about potential tariff hikes from the Trump administration. Could you elaborate on these trade dynamics?
Dr. Ramirez: Absolutely. The Mercosur agreement represents a meaningful opportunity. Imagine access to a 268 million consumer market with reduced tariffs for Spanish agricultural products.This will allow to compensate the negative effects of possible Tarrifs rising from the Trump administration. This is especially true for products like wine, where existing 35% rates are expected to decrease gradually, making Spanish wine more competitive in that region. However, potential tariffs from the US are a genuine worry, as the US is a major importer of Spanish goods.So, while the Mercosur agreement offers a buffer, proactive measures to diversify export markets and strengthen relationships with existing partners are important.
Time.news: The Minister also emphasized Spain’s leadership in agri-food within the EU and the highest agricultural income.How does Spain maintain this competitive edge?
Dr. Ramirez: Spain’s success boils down to a relentless focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation. As the Minister pointed out, spain leads Europe in agricultural research projects, with 256 currently underway. This investment in innovation is crucial for developing new farming techniques, improving crop yields, and creating higher-value products. Also key is to make sure the food offer to the spanish population is guaranteed. Furthermore, Spanish farmers and businesses have been fast to embrace technology and adopt more enduring practices, making them attractive partners for international buyers increasingly concerned about environmental impact.
Time.news: Employed rental also reached a historical record of 45,980 euros, with an increase of 12.6% compared to the previous year. Why is this happening?
Dr. Ramirez: This speaks to the increasing value and profitability driving demand for skilled labor. As the agricultural sector modernizes, it increasingly requires those trained professionals, boosting their compensation. It underscores the importance of training and education in agriculture to ensure a continued supply of skilled workers as the industry keeps thriving.
Time.news: What does this news mean for small and medium-sized agricultural businesses in Spain? Are they benefiting from this export boom?
Dr. Ramirez: While the overall figures are impressive, it’s critically important to ensure that the benefits are distributed across the entire sector, not just concentrated among large corporations. Government programs and industry initiatives should focus on providing support to small and medium-sized agri-food businesses to help them access export markets, improve their competitiveness, and adopt sustainable practices. the rise in agricultural income must translate to increased economic stability for those producers, as they’re the backbone of the industry. So,this means providing targeted assistance with marketing,logistics,and compliance with international standards has to be a priority.
Time.news: what key takeaways would you want our readers to remember from these export figures?
Dr. Ramirez: Firstly, the Spanish agricultural sector is a vital and dynamic part of the economy, contributing significantly to both national wealth and food security. Secondly, international trade is crucial for its continued success. It is imperative to continue the path with sustainable and environmentally conscious practices . Also, the government must champion a balanced approach to trade policy, leveraging opportunities like Mercosur while mitigating risks like potential tariffs. thirdly, investment in innovation, technology, and education is essential to maintain Spain’s leadership position in agri-food.As the Minister noted,food must be known for the great quality and diversity. It’s really about continuing to build a sustainable and competitive future for Spanish agri-food.
Time.news: Dr.Ramirez, thank you for sharing your expertise and providing such valuable insights into the thriving Spanish agricultural sector.
Dr. Ramirez: My pleasure. Thank you for having me.
