Information and communication technologies market in Spain

Spain’s ICT sector is growing rapidly, driven by high connectivity, strong digital infrastructure, and government investment. With 92% of households connected to high-capacity fibre, Spain ranks third in the European Union (EU) for digital connectivity and seventh for overall digital transformation. The sector benefits from EUR 19.6 billion in EU recovery funds dedicated to:

  • digitalization
  • AI
  • cybersecurity
  • 5G

Canadian companies are increasing their export presence and opportunities in cloud, telecom, AI, and automation.

Key opportunities for Canadian ICT companies in Spain

  • Participation in Spain’s AI, cloud, and 5G initiatives through strategic plans like the Spain Digital Agenda 
  • Collaborations in cybersecurity solutions, robotics, and smart manufacturing 
  • Export of gaming, animation, and immersive content to a high-growth market with EU and Latin American reach 

Notable challenges for Canadian ICT companies in Spain

  • Highly competitive local telecom and tech landscape with established EU players
  • Complex regulatory framework for AI and telecom operations, including new cybersecurity laws
  • Preference for local presence or EU subsidiaries in government-funded programs

 

Industry highlights

5% sector contribution to Spain’s GDP 

EUR 19.6 billion in digital transformation investment from Spain’s National Recovery Plan (NRRP) 

More than 580,000 jobs in Spain’s ICT sector 

20 Canadian ICT companies exporting goods or operating via partnerships 

7th in EU for digital transformation (DESI Index) 

73.3 million CAD of Canadian ICT goods exports to Spain in 2022 

Spain's business landscape

Spain’s ICT sector is highly diverse, comprising over 37,000 companies and key hubs in Madrid, Catalonia, and Málaga. Post-COVID trends like remote work and startup-friendly policies such as digital nomad visa, make Spain an attractive tech environment. The “Spain Digital Agenda” includes strategic plans across AI, 5G, digital skills, SME digitalization, and public sector modernization.

Canada-Spain ICT trade is increasing, mainly since the ratification of CETA. With support active in ICT subsectors including:

  • video games
  • robotics
  • audiovisual production
  • telecom infrastructure

Spain is also leading on AI regulation within the EU and has mobilized strong national and regional support for ICT innovation.

Summary

Spain provides Canadian ICT companies access to a rapidly growing and innovation-focused market. This is supported by EU funding, strong digital connectivity, and aligned policies. Opportunities include 5G, AI, automation, cloud services, and creative digital industries. Especially for companies that can partner locally or operate an EU base.

Contact us

For more information on the ICT sector in Spain please contact espana@international.gc.ca

Additional Information

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