The activity of Fira de Barcelona It generated an economic impact of €6.143,51 million in 2024, according to a report by Instituto de Economía de Barcelona (IEB) from Universidad de Barcelona (UBThis 28,1% growth compared to 2019 reinforces its role as an engine of social and business development in the territory.
Sustained growth and contribution to GDP
The report, led by researcher Gemma Garcia along with Núria Bosch y Cristina de JuncosaIt highlights that the trade fair institution contributes a Gross value added (VAB) of 2.960 billion euros, representing 1,02% of the total economy of CataluñaThis dynamism translates into a multiplier effect of 1,78; that is, every euro spent in the trade fair ecosystem generates almost two euros of additional production.
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the entity, Pau RelatHe noted that "the study confirms the institution's positive trajectory and its key role as a driver of the economy." For his part, the director general, Constantí SerrallongaHe emphasized that the record revenues of 350 million euros projected for 2025 are driving the current expansion strategy.
| Key Concept (Data 2024) | Value / Figure |
|---|---|
| Total Economic Impact | 6.143,51 millones de euros |
| Gross Value Added (GVA) | 2.960 millones de euros |
| Jobs created | 49.423 (full day) |
| Estimated tax revenue | 1.224,8 millones de euros |
| Growth vs 2019 | 28,1 % |
Distribution of the impact by sector and industry
The influence of Fira de Barcelona It extends across sectors, although the service sector absorbs 64,7% of the total impact. Nevertheless, industry maintains a significant presence, contributing 30,4% of the economic return.
- Services: The most prominent sectors are commerce, transport and hospitality (39,2%) and professional activities (8,9%).
- Industry: Led by the food sector (14,1%), followed by the chemical sector (2,9%) and machinery (1,9%).
- Job: Of the more than 49.000 jobs, 48,4% are concentrated in the hospitality and restaurant sector.
Internationalization and business generation
A key factor in these figures is the quality of the visitors. With 1,8 million attendees and almost 20.000 direct exhibitors (more than 50% international), Fira de Barcelona It positions itself as a platform for deseasonal business tourismThe direct business creation for the participating Catalan companies amounted to 3.283 billion euros, which represents 53,4% of the overall impact.
Looking ahead, the construction of the new Pavilion Zero in the premises of Gran ViaThe project, scheduled for 2027, will contribute an additional €675 million per year. This project, along with the renovation of Montjuïc For the 1929 centenary, it will allow for a 25% increase in exhibition space and attract larger events such as the MWC Barcelona, ISE o Alimentaria + Hostelco.
Key points and frequently asked questions about the impact of Fira de Barcelona
What percentage of Catalonia's GDP does Fira's activity represent?
Trade fair activity generates a Gross Value Added of 2.960 billion euros, equivalent to 1,02% of the total GDP of Cataluña.
What is the multiplier effect of investment in trade fair events?
For every euro spent by agents linked to Fira de BarcelonaThis generates an increase of 1,78 euros in the production of the Catalan economy.
What impact will the future expansion of the Gran Via venue have?
The launch of the new Pavilion Zero In 2027, it will represent an additional economic injection of 675 million euros annually and a 25% increase in available space.
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