The Spanish agri-food sector breaks records: it reaches 193 markets and climbs into the world's 'Top 7'

 

The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas, has closed the Awards Food Changemakers de KM ZEROhighlighting that innovation and digitalization are essential tools to guarantee the resilience and future of the Spanish agri-food system in a complex global market.

 

Technology and entrepreneurship: the engine of the food system

 

During your speech, Luis Planas He emphasized that technological modernization is not an option, but a necessity. strategic need Given the current geopolitical tensions and climate challenges, the minister has highlighted the "collective intelligence exercise" undertaken by leaders of change to promote a healthier and more competitive production model.

 

El Ministerio de Agricultura, Pesca y Alimentación bets decisively on the innovative entrepreneurship through participatory loans aimed at technology-based companies, as well as mentoring programs. In this area, the role of the program has been highlighted La Vega Innova, designed to support emerging initiatives that transform the primary sector.

 

Sector magnitudes and international positioning

 

The agri-food sector is consolidating its position as a fundamental pillar of the Spanish economy and rural development. With a strong international presence, España stands as the fourth largest agri-food exporter in the European Union and seventh worldwide, operating in a total of 193 countries.

 

To protect this position, the Corporate has promoted the Estrategia Nacional de Alimentación and the Plan Internacional de la Gastronomía EspañolaRoadmaps designed to ensure food sovereignty and long-term competitiveness.

 

Economic Indicator (2025)	Figure / Value
Value of agri-food production	More than 75.600 million euros
agricultural income	More than 41.200 million euros
Total employment in the sector	1,3 million people
Active food industries	More than 28.000 (including 3.200 cooperatives)
Export scope	193 countries

 

Recognition of change leaders

 

Within the framework of the awards organized by the Think Tank KM ZEROThe minister presented the "Future of Agriculture" award to the engineer Mercedes IborraYour company, VisualNACert, stands out for its use of the precision farming and decision-making based on geolocated data.

 

The work of Rodrigo de la Calle for its focus on gastrobotany and sustainability, already Rodrigo García through the development of plant-based bioplastics, critical solutions for reducing the environmental impact of the food industry.

 

• Digitization: Implementation of data for productive efficiency.
• Sustainability: New materials and respectful cultivation techniques.
• Internationalization: Brand reinforcement España in global markets.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about agri-food leadership

 

What is Spain's position in the food trade?
España is currently the fourth largest exporter of Unión Europea and seventh in the world ranking, with exports reaching 193 countries.

 

What tools does the Government use to promote innovation?
El Ministerio It uses participatory loans, startup accelerator programs, and platforms such as La Vega Innova to mentor technology projects.

 

How important is digitalization for agricultural income?
It is the main lever for improving profitability; in 2025, agricultural income exceeded 41.200 billion euros, driven largely by technical efficiency and precision agriculture.

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