Catalonia Prioritizes Local Jobs for Chinese Investments

Catalonia is positioning itself as a strategic entry point for investment from China while simultaneously emphasizing the need to protect the local workforce. Salvador Illa, the leader of the Spanish region, stated that while the area welcomes foreign capital, it opposes the large-scale importation of labor to ensure regional employment remains a priority.

The region has leveraged the Barcelona port and proactive government outreach to become a primary hub for Chinese business within Spain. However, the arrival of foreign staff for major industrial projects has become a point of contention. For instance, CONTEMPORARY AMPEREX TECHN-A reportedly utilized 2,000 Chinese workers for plant construction in the neighboring region of Aragon, though the company noted it remains open to local hiring.

We dont need workers from abroad to come.

Illa, a close ally of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, noted that the strengthening of bilateral ties has facilitated these economic interests. This follows a high-level meeting in Beijing where Sanchez and President Xi Jinping pledged to deepen cooperation between the two nations.

Several major automotive players are currently evaluating or expanding their presence in the region. CHERY AUTOMOBILE CO LTD-H is planning to launch its first European factory in Barcelona, despite some delays in the project schedule. Additionally, BYD CO LTD -A has identified the country as a top candidate for a new European car manufacturing facility, with Catalonia listed as a potential site.

Statistical data highlights the growing economic bond. Between 2020 and 2024, Catalonia secured 24 new investment projects from Chinese firms, representing one-quarter of the national total for the period. Total investment reached 1.3 billion euros, marking a fourfold increase compared to the preceding five-year window.