India consolidates its position as the world's fourth largest economy and a strategic hub for Spanish exports

 

Within the framework of the international business conference series organized by Hub Sabadell On January 21st, experts from Banco Sabadell y Cesce They confirmed that India It is already the world's fourth largest economy, offering massive opportunities in infrastructure and manufacturing for Spanish companies.

 

 

The rise of IndiaFrom emerging power to global engine

 

 

The economy of India It is undergoing an unprecedented historical transformation. As highlighted Rafael Loring, senior economist at Cesce Riesgo PaísThe Asian giant has managed to climb rapidly in the global rankings. In May 2025, the country reached a significant milestone by surpassing Japón in terms of nominal GDP, consolidating itself as the world's fourth largest economyProjections indicate that by 2027 it will surpass Alemania, ranking only behind Estados Unidos y China.

 

 

This dynamism is based on a combination of structural reformsmacroeconomic stability and a favorable demographic dividend. With an average age of just 28 and a savings rate ranging between 30% and 35%, India It has the necessary capacity to finance high levels of investment without relying excessively on external savings. "It is an essential destination right now in companies' internationalization strategies," he stated. Rafael Loring during his intervention.

 

 

Macroeconomic Indicator	Data / Value
Approximate GDP	4 trillion USD
World Economy Ranking	4th place (Surpasses Japón)
Growth Rate (2025)	Higher than 6,5% – 7%
Population of working age	Sustained growth (Demographic dividend)
Inflation	Close to 2% (Historically low rate)

 

Sectoral opportunities and the *China Plus One* effect

 

Reena AroraBusiness Development Manager of the representative office of Banco Sabadell en IndiaHe emphasized the impact of the initiative. Make in IndiaThis program aims to transform the country into a global manufacturing hub, attracting multinational corporations seeking to diversify their supply chains through the *China Plus One* strategy. A prime example is that of Apple, which has reached $50.000 billion in exports of locally manufactured iPhones through December 2025.

 

For the Spanish company, the sectors with the greatest potential include:

 

• Infrastructure and Transport: With plans like the Gati Shakti, which coordinates 16 ministries to accelerate public works.
• Renewable energy: Goal to reach 500 GW of installed capacity by 2030.
• Defense and Aviation: The assembly plant stands out in Airbus y Tata to produce 40 military transport aircraft on Indian soil.
• Smart Cities: Projects like GIFT City, the country's first international financial center.

 

Bilateral relations: The 2026 horizon

 

The relationship between España e India He is experiencing a moment of particular intensity. Carlos Dalmau, Director of International Business of Banco SabadellHe noted that the organization has been present in the country since 1994, enabling them to offer expert advice to the more than 250 Spanish companies already established there. Furthermore, 2026 has been designated as the [year/year]. "India-Spain Dual Year", coinciding with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

 

Despite tariff barriers and initial bureaucratic complexities, the perception of Spanish products is positive, with their technology and durability being particularly valued. The recent visit of the president Pedro Sánchez and the inauguration of joint industrial projects reinforce a framework for collaboration that seeks to balance the trade balance and foster long-term strategic alliances.

 

Key points and frequently asked questions about the market India

1. Why is it considered India as an alternative logistics hub to China?

Due to the *China Plus One* strategy, companies are seeking to reduce geopolitical risks by establishing additional headquarters. India offers incentives linked to production (PLI) and a young workforce that offsets slightly higher operating costs.

2. How important is the plan? Gati Shakti for investors?

It is a digital platform that integrates the infrastructure planning of 16 ministries. Its objective is to eliminate bureaucratic incoordination, expedite permits, and modernize the transport network (roads, ports, and railways) to improve export competitiveness.

3. What is the country risk situation according to Cesce?

Cesce classifies India It is ranked 3rd out of 7, considered an investment-grade country. The nation is currently a net external creditor with foreign exchange reserves exceeding $600.000 billion, guaranteeing solvency in the face of potential global recessions.