A month ago, I wrote that Spain is Europe’s locomotive: GDP growth at +2.9% in 2025, several expanding sectors, and European funds still waiting to be allocated. If you read that article, you probably agreed.
But agreeing is not enough. The question entrepreneurs ask me is not “why Spain?”, but “how do I enter that market with my company and my resources?”
That is the right question. And it deserves a practical answer.
First of all: this is the right timing
The Export Planning Country Report on Spain shows a country in a strong expansion phase of its economic cycle. Imports of goods are growing by +9.4% per year. The commercial distance from Italy is minimal: same EU area, no currency barriers, high-level logistics infrastructure, and business cultures with many similarities. In practical terms, entering Spain from Italy is one of the most accessible moves within the European export landscape.
When a market is growing fast, buyers start looking for suppliers — not the other way around. It is like bringing an umbrella when it is raining, not when the sky is already clear.
But this window will not stay open forever. Spain still has around €20 billion of European funds to allocate before August 2026. Those who arrive late may find the seats already taken.
Where to focus: the strongest supply chains for Italian companies
Export Planning data clearly identifies the sectors where Italy is already among Spain’s main suppliers. Companies are not starting from scratch — they are strengthening a position already built over time.
In mechanical components, Italy holds almost 12% of the Spanish market, ranking third after Germany and China. Spanish companies purchase components for industrial plants, mechanical transmission systems, and parts for industrial refrigeration. If your company operates in this area, you already have one foot in the market.
In machinery and industrial equipment, Italy ranks second with more than 16% market share. Spain is investing in production capacity — automation, handling systems, industrial plants — and this is visible in current orders.
In agricultural machinery and earth-moving equipment, Italy is again second with nearly 14% market share. Not surprising: Spain is the leading agri-food exporter in the Eurozone, and the sector continues investing in mechanization and productivity.
These are not niche markets. They are structural supply chains with stable and growing demand, where Made in Italy has already built strong credibility.
How to enter: method, not luck
Entering Spain is not complicated. It is systematic. These are the steps I usually recommend:
1. Competitive positioning analysis
Before moving, companies need to understand who is already there. In Spain, the main competitors are German, French, and Chinese suppliers. Understanding where the competition takes place — price, service, technical specialization — is the mandatory starting point.
2. Channel identification
Spain is usually approached through local agents or distributors. Not because it is mandatory, but because Iberian business culture rewards established relationships. A good agent with an active client portfolio is worth more than any marketing campaign.
3. Partner qualification
Finding an agent is not enough: companies must qualify the partner carefully. Covered sectors, existing clients, financial strength, possible overlaps with competing brands. Many companies skip this step — and pay the price later.
4. Gradual market approach
Spain is not conquered in one quarter. Start with 2–3 pilot customers, validate margins, understand the local purchasing cycle. Only then is it time to scale up.
5. The bridgehead advantage
Companies working with a strong Iberian partner often discover that the relationship also opens doors to Morocco and North Africa — markets where Spain already has consolidated trade connections. A double expansion with a single initial investment.
Risks not to underestimate
Spain’s risk profile remains medium-low, with an A- sovereign rating and a solid banking system. However, two factors deserve attention. Public debt exceeds 100% of GDP. And unemployment, although significantly reduced, is still around 11%. These are not blocking issues, but they should remain on the radar when evaluating payment terms and the solvency of potential local customers.
In summary
Spain is an accessible and growing market, with open supply chains and an already consolidated Italian presence across several sectors. It does not require massive investments to test the market. It requires method.
If you are considering Spain for your company, the first question is not “is it worth it?” — the numbers already say yes. The real question is: where do I start?
Write to me or call me: we can have an initial exploratory conversation, with no obligation.
Do you already have customers in Spain? How did it go? Tell me in the comments.