In 2023, agricultural, food, and fisheries exports reached a record figure of €70.431 billion, according to the preliminary data published by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food (MAPA). This figure represents a 3% increase compared to the provisional data for 2022 and exceeds the €70 billion mark for the first time.
After evaluating the data, Minister Luis Planas indicated that “the agricultural and fisheries trade balance has recovered from the decline suffered in 2022, increasing by 10% to €15.472 billion.” According to the minister, these figures demonstrate that Spain has a dynamic agricultural and fisheries sector, which acts as a driving force for the national economy, positioning the country as an agricultural powerhouse.
This sector has shown better performance than the overall economy, with a 3% increase in exports compared to the final data for 2022. Agricultural and food exports accounted for 18.4% of Spain’s total exports in 2023, while imports accounted for 13%.
Regarding imports, they have increased by 1.2%, reaching €54.959 billion.
As for the main exporting subsectors in 2023, the meat group ranks first with €10.299 billion, followed by fruits with €9.977 billion, and vegetables with €8.864 billion. Meanwhile, the vegetable and legume group saw a 9.9% increase in exports compared to 2022.
Regarding the destinations of agricultural, food, and fisheries exports in 2023, 67.4% were directed to the European Union, representing an 8.2% increase compared to 2022, while 32.6% were destined for third countries, marking a 6.2% decrease.
Source: Financial Food