The CZFB positions DFactory as a strategic hub for the 4.0 transformation of the Catalan agri-food sector

Public-private collaboration

The Minister of Agriculture, Òscar Ordeig, visited DFactory Barcelona to learn firsthand about the Industry 4.0 ecosystem promoted by the Barcelona Free Trade Zone Consortium (CZFB). The aim is to explore synergies to modernize the primary sector and its value chain.

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El Barcelona Free Trade Zone Consortium (CZFB) It continues to accelerate its mission to digitize the economy, and the primary sector is no exception to this revolution. Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food of the Government of Catalonia, Òscar Ordeig, accompanied by the Secretary of FoodRosa Cubel, have confirmed in situ the muscle of DFactory Barcelona as an engine of change for the new productive economy.

The top officials of the CZFB, Pere Navarro (CEO) and Blanca Sorigué (Director General), guided the Government delegation through an innovation hub that has already established itself as a true European benchmark. During the working session, the authorities agreed that the rise of the eco-agriculture And the unavoidable adaptation to climate change demands advanced technological solutions; a challenge for which this Barcelona industrial ecosystem is fully prepared.

After learning about the projects being developed at the site, Minister Ordeig praised the center's technology transfer model, highlighting its potential to revolutionize traditional production methods: "DFactory Barcelona is a very clear example of how innovation, technology and collaboration between sectors can contribute to transforming the country's productive economy."

In this regard, the regional minister stressed that the progress in artificial intelligence, advanced robotics, biotechnology, sensor technology and data analysis They open up invaluable opportunities to move towards “more efficient, sustainable, and competitive production.” He also pointed out that connecting Catalonia’s powerful agri-food sector with these innovation hubs is vital to “strengthen food sovereignty, generate added value, and address major future challenges.”

Technological expansion and full operational performance

The operational figures support the track record of success. DFactory BarcelonaCurrently, the venue has reached 100% occupancyIt is home to 46 corporations specializing in disruptive technologies such as 3D printing and cybersecurity. This dynamic hub already generates more than 300 direct jobs and exceeds the 1.200 indirect jobsAs a result of this intense business collaboration, the following have been recorded: 63 patents worldwide, demonstrating the potential of this environment to generate applied technological knowledge.

Far from reaching its peak, the project continues to grow. The CZFB is already promoting an ambitious expansion phase to extend the facilities to the Sqm 60.000This strategic move will solidify the venue as one of the largest hubs industrial and technological centers in southern Europe, acting as a powerful magnet for attracting new corporations and talent.

Pere Navarro emphasized the importance of integrating this technology into the production sector: “The agri-food sector is one of our country's greatest economic and social assets, and also one of the areas where innovation can have the most direct impact on competitiveness, sustainability, and people's quality of life.” Navarro reiterated the public entity's commitment to providing industrial solutions that contribute to resource efficiency in the face of climate change, stating that the Consortium aims to offer the sector “an ecosystem capable of connecting technology, business, and applied knowledge.”

Agri-food, a new star vertical at BNEW 2026

The strong boom in the sector agritech It will have an exceptional showcase at the next edition of the Barcelona New Economy Week (BNEW 2026)This internationally renowned event will take place from October 5th to 7th at the DFactory facilities. The organizers have confirmed that agri-food will debut as a new vertical segment, joining other strategic areas of discussion such as Aviation & Space, Gaming, Talent, Science, Health, Energy and Artificial Intelligence.

Regarding this strategic milestone, Blanca Sorigué concluded by highlighting the center's inclusive nature: “DFactory Barcelona is a living ecosystem, where cutting-edge technologies are transformed into concrete solutions through collaboration between companies, talent, and institutions.” The CEO emphasized that the agri-food industry needs, now more than ever, forums for sharing knowledge, forging alliances, and launching projects with a real market impact. “We want DFactory to also be a meeting point to accelerate this evolution,” Sorigué stated.

Key points and frequently asked questions about innovation in the agri-food sector

What does DFactory Barcelona represent for an exporting company in the agri-food sector?

For an exporting company, DFactory Barcelona It represents direct access to an applied innovation ecosystem. It allows companies in the sector to test and integrate robotics, sensor, or artificial intelligence solutions to optimize their production, improve product traceability—an increasingly demanded requirement in international markets—and make their export logistics chains more efficient.

How does Industry 4.0 impact the agricultural supply chain?

Industry 4.0 is transforming the agricultural supply chain through the digitalization and automation of processes. This translates into real-time tracking of products from the field to the end customer, improved inventory management, optimized transport routes, and greater responsiveness to disruptions. For international trade, this means increased reliability, reduced costs, and compliance with stricter international regulations.

What synergies are expected between the Generalitat and the CZFB after this visit?

This institutional visit is expected to be the starting point for developing joint programs to support the digitalization of the agri-food sector. The synergies could materialize in pilot projects, funding lines for technological adoption in SMEs within the sector, and the creation of a framework to facilitate collaboration among technology startups. DFactory and traditional companies in the agricultural, livestock and fishing sectors of Catalunya.