Europe & Spain: Transport, Trade, Tourism Dynamics

European Transport Systems

Road transport boasts a dense network of highways. Railways have lost their dominance, though their role in the transport of goods and passengers remains important. Europe also possesses important merchant naval fleets. Air transport primarily serves passengers.

European Trade Dynamics

Internal trade is conducted with priority among the countries that are part of the EU. Foreign trade is also very important.

EU Transport & Trade Policy

Policy promotes trans-European networks to improve business infrastructures. This policy is based on the principle that member countries constitute a single market. Internal policy is based on the customs union, or the elimination of customs duties. External policy includes a common tariff for imported products.

European Tourism Trends

High outbound tourism is due to the high standard of living. The reception of tourists is facilitated by a good network of transport. Key tourism modalities include Mediterranean beach tourism and Alpine mountain tourism. Major tourist destinations include Spain, Italy, and France, among other countries.

EU Tourism Policy Objectives

The policy aims to facilitate tourism as an element of European integration, encourage new ways to improve information, and enhance the preparation of the sector.

Spain's Economic Landscape

Spanish Service Sector Growth

The service sector has seen an increase due to rising living standards, the generalization of the welfare state, and increased demand for services from the autonomous communities.

Spain's Transport Infrastructure

The physical environment is unfavorable for transport. Road transport predominates, and networks maintain a radial pattern. There are strong regional imbalances, and land communications with Europe are weak. The transportation system also affects the environment.

Modes of Transport

• Road
• Rail
• Boats
• Planes

Spanish Trade Overview

Domestic Trade

• Wholesale trade: Located in strategic locations.
• Retail trade: Dominated by traditional small shops, accounting for over 80%.
• New forms of commerce: Extending slowly.

Foreign Trade

• Principal trade is with other EU countries, thanks to the free movement of goods.
• The Spanish trade balance is in deficit.
• Spain is a leading importer of energy products and industrial goods with high technology.
• The farms are based on cars.

Spanish Tourism Industry

Spain is the world's second-largest tourist destination. Foreign tourists are mostly European, especially British.

Key Areas & Challenges

• Areas: Mediterranean littoral.
• Control problems: Part of the business is controlled by foreign tour operators.
• Solutions: Go through the creation of national positive operators.

Consequences of Tourism

• Positive: Creates jobs.
• Negative: Seasonal employment, elevation of prices, etc.