Spain's Trade Dynamics and Transport Networks

Trade

Internal Trade

Internal trade is widespread in Spain. Small businesses and traditional trade activities previously dominated. However, in recent years, internal trade has undergone a major restructuring characterized by:

• Modernization driven by new consumption habits and credit cards.
• Spread of new commercial forms like shopping malls.
• Challenges for traditional small businesses competing with supermarkets.

Foreign Trade

Foreign trade has experienced phenomenal growth. The Spanish trade balance remains in deficit, meaning imports exceed exports. Imports include capital goods, energy supplies, and consumer goods. Exports include manufactured goods, foodstuffs, industrial machinery, transport equipment, chemicals, etc.

Transportation

Road Transport

The road network is divided into several levels:

• State Network: Responsibility of the state, linking major cities, economic centers, and enabling international connections.
• Regional Network: Facilitates communication within each autonomous community and connects to the state network.
• Provincial and Island Networks: Provide access to population centers within each province or island.

The Strategic Plan for Infrastructure and Transport (2005-2020) aimed to complete the traditional radial structure of the road network by adding new cross-cutting routes linking existing ones.

Rail Transport

The Spanish rail network is operated by RENFE. Increased activity and profitability are largely attributed to high-speed trains and lines (AVE), known for their speed and quality.

Air Transport

Air transport has grown rapidly in recent years. The major airports are Madrid-Barajas and Barcelona-El Prat. Airports in key tourist areas are also significant. Objectives for air transport include:

• Increasing the quality of airport services for aircraft, passengers, and airlines.
• Reducing the environmental impact of air traffic.

Maritime Transport

Maritime transport is crucial for international goods traffic, primarily bulk liquids and solids, and containerized merchandise. Passenger traffic is concentrated in the Strait of Gibraltar and routes connecting to the Balearic and Canary Islands. Key objectives for maritime transport include the modernization of the merchant fleet.