Spanish exports hit a new all-time record in April, exceeding 34.380 billion euros

Trade Balance April 2026

Spanish merchandise exports reached a record high of €34.388 billion in April 2026, representing a year-on-year increase of 5,8%, according to data from the State Secretariat for Trade. The surge in capital goods exports and strong economic activity within the European Union underscore the strength of the external sector, despite the trade deficit caused by higher import costs.

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Spanish exports defy global uncertainty with record growth in April

Spanish merchandise exports broke a historic record in April 2026, reaching 34.388 millones de eurosThis represents a year-on-year growth of 5,8%. According to the latest Monthly Foreign Trade Report published by the Secretary of State for Commerce, attached to Ministerio de Economía, Comercio y EmpresaThe seasonally adjusted figure reflects even greater strength, with an increase of 6,3%, demonstrating the resilience of the Spanish external sector in a complex international scenario.

Data analysis reveals that non-energy exportsExports, which constitute the bulk of foreign sales, reached €31.600 billion after adjusting for seasonality and calendar effects, representing a solid increase of 4,7% compared to the same month of the previous year. This dynamism underscores the competitiveness of Spanish energy supply despite fluctuations in energy markets.

Capital goods and chemicals, drivers of export growth

The sectors that made the greatest positive contribution to growth in April were the equipment goods (1,9 points) and the semi-manufactureschemical products stand out in particular (1,9 points). Their combined contribution even surpassed that of energy goods (1,6 points), demonstrating the diversification and added value of the export base of EspañaThe automotive sector also recorded a significant surplus, consolidating its position as a fundamental pillar of the country's foreign trade.

Geographically, the Unión Europea It is consolidating its position as the main trading partner and engine of growth. Exports to the European Union, which represent 63% of the total, experienced a strong increase of 11,3%. Record figures for the month of April were reached in 14 of the Member States, with particularly notable performance in key markets such as Alemania, Francia, Italia y Portugal.

Outside the single market, sales also showed positive performance. Non-energy exports to EEUU They grew by 5,4% in their seasonally adjusted rate, one year after the so-called Liberation DayFurthermore, monthly record highs were achieved in other markets of great strategic importance for España, as are the Reino Unido, Marruecos o Andorra.

The trade deficit is increasing due to the higher cost of imports.

Despite the excellent export performance, the trade balance registered a deficit of 5.170 million euros in April. This result is mainly due to the sharp increase in imports, which reached €39.480 billion, a 9,5% increase in seasonally adjusted terms. Energy purchases, which only account for 7% of total exports, grew by 36% due to the price effect stemming from geopolitical tensions in Oriente Medio and the crisis in the Strait of Ormuz, which has led to a global increase in the price of raw materials.

In this context, the base of regular exporters —those companies that have exported more than €1.000 annually over the last four years— continues to strengthen. Their number grew by 0,7% in the first four months of the year, reaching 41.205 operators. This group is responsible for 99,9% of the total value of exports, demonstrating the consolidation and professionalization of the internationalized business sector of España.

Trade Indicator (April 2026)	Figure	Year-on-year variation
Total Exports	34.388 M€	+ 5,8 %
Total Imports	39.480 M€	+9,5% (desest.)
Trade Deficit	5.170 M€
Regular Exporters (cumulative)	41.205	+ 0,7 %

Key points and frequently asked questions about Spain's record exports

How does this record export level affect Spanish companies?

This record high demonstrates the strong international demand for Spanish products and services, validating internationalization strategies. For companies, it represents a sign of confidence and opens up growth opportunities, especially in the capital goods and chemical sectors, and in established markets such as the Unión Europea.

What are the implications of the increased trade deficit for Spain?

Although exports are growing strongly, the widening trade deficit reflects the high energy dependence of España and their vulnerability to geopolitical tensions that drive up import costs. For executives, this underscores the importance of optimizing supply chains and managing the risks associated with commodity price volatility.

Which markets outside the EU present the greatest opportunities for exporters?

The data from April confirms the importance of diversifying markets beyond the Unión EuropeaSustained growth in EEUU and the records achieved in the Reino Unido, Marruecos y Andorra They position them as strategic destinations with high potential for Spanish companies seeking to expand their global presence.