New SME Framework 2030: six keys to business competitiveness in Spain

Industrial Policy

The Minister of Industry and Tourism, Jordi Hereu, chaired the State Council for SMEs to present the updated Strategic Framework 2030. The new Framework promotes the competitiveness of SMEs through six key pillars: growth, talent, financing, innovation and digitalization, sustainability and internationalization.

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The Government strengthens its strategy for SMEs with a plan to 2030 and focuses on private late payments

The Minister of Industry and Tourism, Jordi Hereu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Gobierno with the Spanish business community at the last meeting of Consejo Estatal de la PymeDuring the meeting, held today, July 2, 2026, two critical issues for foreign trade and national competitiveness were addressed: the persistent delinquency in the private sector and the updating of Marco Estratégico en Política de Pyme 2030 (MEPP 2030).

Private sector late payments, a persistent drag on competitiveness

One of the key points of the day has been the analysis of Delinquency Report 2025, previously approved in the Observatorio Estatal de la Morosidad PrivadaThe document reveals a worrying dichotomy: while the public sector has managed to meet payment deadlines, with its average payment period below the legal 30 days, the private sector continues to be a source of liquidity problems for companies, especially smaller ones. According to the data presented, the average business payment period is... 64 days, according to figures from Banco de España, and rises to 67 days according to the Plataforma Multisectorial contra la Morosidad, exceeding in both cases the legal limit of 60 days.

This situation is exacerbated by abusive practices, as the report highlights that 60% of companies report the imposition of unfair payment termsTo address this structural problem, the Council has stressed the need to strengthen control mechanisms and improve the traceability of operations, pointing to the Electronic bill as a key tool to ensure compliance with regulations.

Analysis of Average Payment Periods in 2025

Sector Analyzed	Average Payment Period	Current Legal Limit
Public sector	Less than 30 days	30 days
Private Sector (according to Banco de España)	64 days	60 days
Private Sector (according to Plataforma Multisectorial contra la Morosidad)	67 days	60 days

Strategic Framework 2030: the roadmap for SME growth

The meeting also served to present the updated version of Marco Estratégico en Política de Pyme 2030A tool designed to align public policies with the needs of the business sector. Far from being a new plan, this review consolidates the existing framework and adapts it to current challenges and priorities. Unión EuropeaThe central objective is clear: to drive a structural leap in competitiveness of Spanish SMEs.

The diagnosis that motivates this strategy is compelling. The productive fabric of España It remains highly fragmented, with 92,9% micro-enterprises, and carries a productivity gap of 37% compared to the EU average. To correct these weaknesses, the MEPP 2030 It is structured around six key areas of action: business growth, talent, financing, innovation and digitalization, sustainability and CapabilitiesThis framework is supported by recent reforms such as the Ley Crea y Crece and Ley de Startups, as well as in the instruments of Plan de Recuperación, strengthening coordination between administrations and economic agents.

The renewed Consejo Estatal de la PymeThe Commission, expanded in its composition after the 2024 reform, is thus consolidated as the fundamental body for monitoring these policies and proposing measures that promote a more innovative, resilient and competitive business model at a global level.

Key points and frequently asked questions about the new strategy for SMEs and late payments

How does late payments from the private sector affect my export business?

Although the report focuses on the domestic level, internal payment delays weaken the entire value chain. An exporter can experience cash flow problems if their domestic suppliers are not paid on time or if they themselves suffer payment delays from customers in [country name missing]. EspañaThis lack of liquidity can hinder the ability to invest in foreign markets, finance new orders, or participate in international trade fairs.

What practical changes does the 2030 Strategic Framework imply for a company seeking to internationalize?

El MEPP 2030 define the Capabilities as one of its six strategic pillars. This will translate into more coordinated public policies and support programs to help SMEs grow internationally. Businesses can expect strengthened programs for accessing new markets, support for the digitalization of foreign trade, and a greater focus on sustainability as a factor in global competitiveness.

Will electronic invoicing be the definitive solution to payment delays?

According to what was discussed in the Council, electronic invoicing is a tool protagonist and is fundamental for improving traceability and control. While not a complete solution on its own, its mandatory nature and proper implementation make it more difficult to conceal payment dates and facilitate oversight by the authorities. It is considered an essential step, which must be complemented by control mechanisms and an effective sanctions regime.