Catalonia export growth surged by nearly 6% in September, significantly outpacing the broader Spanish economy according to new trade data.

The region’s overseas sales reached €8.57 billion, while national exports grew only 2.6% to €32.42 billion during the same period.

This strong performance means Catalonia now accounts for 26.4% of all Spanish exports, regaining its position as a key driver of the country’s international trade.

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The chemical sector led the expansion, representing 28% of total exports, followed by food, beverages and tobacco at 16.4%.

Catalonia Export Growth Faces Import Challenge

However, the positive export news comes with a significant caveat. While exports grew strongly, imports increased even faster at nearly 10%, reaching €10.04 billion in September. Consequently, the region’s trade deficit widened substantially from €1.04 billion last September to €1.47 billion this year.

The first nine months of 2025 reveal a similar pattern. Catalan exports grew 1.5% to €75.33 billion, but imports increased 4.9% to €86.55 billion. Therefore, the cumulative trade deficit has expanded to €11.21 billion, compared to €8.34 billion during the same period in 2024.

Furthermore, the data shows Catalonia’s increasing importance as Barcelona secures its role as India’s gateway to Europe, though this strategic position hasn’t yet reversed the deficit trend.

Equipment goods and the automotive sector also contributed significantly to export growth at 16.3% and 13.6% respectively. Meanwhile, nearly two-thirds of Catalan exports (60.7%) went to European Union countries, with sales to non-eurozone EU members growing 4%.

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Enterprise data also reveals how global conflicts have affected trade patterns. Exports to Ukraine increased 26.6%, while sales to Russia declined 2.1%. Additionally, Catalan exports to the United States fell 1.6%, reflecting ongoing trade tensions.

This export performance occurs against a backdrop of broader economic challenges, including youth joblessness hitting 20.6% and sparking crisis talks across the region. The widening trade gap suggests that while Catalonia remains an export powerhouse, maintaining competitiveness in an uncertain global market presents ongoing challenges.

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