The Catalan agri-food sector

Catalunya, best European region for the future*

The agri-food sector is the largest of the Catalan economy and one of the most dynamic export sectors. The volume and value of its exports are growing year after year.

Catalonia’s logistics network can serve 400 million consumers in under 48 hours, while its geostrategic location enables efficient intercontinental connections with Asia and America as well as optimum distribution to Europe and Africa.

*Financial Times fDi Magazine ranking

Catalonia in figures

The Catalan agri-food sector, driver o the Catalan economy

The agri-food sector generates €38.2 Bn turnover, equivalent to 16.28% of Catalonia’s GDP, and directly employs 164,372 people. This makes it the region’s largest sector of the economy.

It comprises 57,423 agricultural holdings, 3,922 food and drink industries, and 436 establishments in the agri-food auxiliary industry.

The meat sector is the largest processed food sub-sector representing 32% of turnover volume, followed by fine food (30%), vegetable oils (9%), wine (7%), fruit and vegetables (4%), cereals and mill grain products (2%), and fish and seafood (1%).

The food and drink industry in Catalonia accounts for 23% of the sector turnover in Spain.

A gastronomic power, internationally recognised at the highest level 

Catalonia’s deeply rooted culinary tradition, the variety and quality of its produce, and the innovative creativity of its top restaurants have made it a gastronomic power that is internationally recognised at the highest level.

Catalonia is the region of Spain with the most Michelin stars.

Top in export growth in Europe

Catalan food products have achieved significant value on international markets: in the last 10 years, exports have risen by 45% in volume and 65% in value. With €9.8 Bn in exports, €8 Bn in imports, and a coverage ratio of 98%, the Catalan agri-food sector is the twelfth-largest exporter in the European Union.  

Its exports account for 21% of all exports from Spain in value, and 26% of the number of companies that export on a regular basis. Catalonia exports food to over 200 countries. The meat sector is the largest exporter, followed by fine food, fruit and vegetables, vegetable oils, wine, and fish and seafood.