Spain’s Trade Ecosystem: SMEs Scale with Express and E-Commerce Logistics

As European supply chains evolve, Spain's competitive edge makes it a fertile ground for SMEs and international businesses alike. The country is capitalizing on its advantages to create opportunities for growth:​

• World-Class Infrastructure & Logistics Readiness: Spain's infrastructure is a cornerstone of its trade power. Major air cargo hub like Madrid-Barajas (MAD) connects Europe to the Americas, while the ports of Valencia, Algeciras, and Barcelona are among Europe’s busiest, serving as critical gateways for global trade.​​

• A Thriving Digital Economy: Spain boasts one of Europe’s fastest-growing digital economies. A highly connected population and strong online retail growth, backed by government initiatives, make it a hotbed for e-commerce businesses.​

• Strategic Location: Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Americas, Spain offers unparalleled access to diverse markets, making it an ideal hub for international distribution.​

• Supportive Business Environment: As an EU member, Spain provides access to numerous free trade agreements. Additionally, domestic policies include incentives for startups, grants for digitalization, and simplified customs procedures.

Spain provides powerful enablers for SME expansion, from favorable tax policies to unparalleled market access through the European Union. As an EU member, Spain gives SMEs access to numerous free trade agreements, reducing barriers to key global markets. Domestically, businesses benefit from:​

• Favorable corporate tax rates.​

• Incentives for startups under recent legislation.​

• Grants for digitalization and green technology.​

• Simplified customs and business registration

Spain’s diverse industrial base drives its air cargo trade, with major opportunities in several high-value sectors:​

World-class infrastructure is the backbone of Spain's logistics prowess. The country ranked 13th globally in the 2023 World Bank Logistics Performance Index, reflecting its advanced transport networks and efficient customs procedures.​​

Airports: Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas International Airport is the primary air cargo hub, linking Europe with Latin America and beyond. Meanwhile, Zaragoza has emerged as a strategic express cargo hub for integrators like FedEx, facilitating rapid e-commerce distribution.

Seaports: Spain is home to some of Europe's busiest maritime gateways. The Port of Valencia is a top-five container port in Europe, while Algeciras, near the Strait of Gibraltar, is a vital global transshipment hub connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa. The Port of Barcelona is another leading multipurpose port for industrial and high-value goods.​​

This robust infrastructure ensures that businesses can benefit from competitive shipping costs, reliable delivery timelines, and seamless integration into both EU and global value chains.

✔ Economy: Fourth-largest economy in the Eurozone and a highly developed social market economy, positioned as a dynamic hub for trade and manufacturing in Europe with total goods trade exceeding €809 billion in 2024.​

✔ Top Export Verticals: A robust industrial base with key export sectors including automotive (vehicles and components), machinery and equipment, agri-food products, renewable energy technologies, and chemical products, with projected annual export growth of 4-5%.​

✔ Global Reach: Spain serves as a strategic gateway connecting Europe with Latin America and North Africa, benefiting from advanced logistics infrastructure including strategic ports and airports, plus access to an extensive network of free trade agreements.​

With a robust network of 24 stations, over 3,200 retail locations, and a fleet exceeding 900 vehicles, FedEx in Spain delivers seamless global connectivity, linking businesses to over 220 countries and territories with rapid, reliable shipping. Targeting Europe’s 450 million consumers? Our strategic hubs in Paris and Liège, combined with our Cologne international air gateway, make it effortless. Leverage FedEx’s Asia-Europe air network to reach European markets in as little as 2 days.*​

This overview provides just a glimpse into Spain’s vibrant trade landscape. Ready to unlock the full potential of this dynamic market?​​

Download our comprehensive country profile, "Spain Strategic Trade Insight," for exclusive insights into Free Trade Agreements (EU–Japan EPA, EU–Vietnam FTA, and more), SME tax incentives, detailed logistics strategies for high-growth sectors like life sciences and luxury goods, and practical guidance to thrive in Spain’s global trade ecosystem.​

*Transit times are subject to origin-destination combinations, declared value and commodity type FedEx terms and conditions apply. Please visit: www.fedex.com​