Solids technology from Spain: What makes the sector strong?

The Spanish solids technology sector is demonstrating remarkable adaptability in a complex global economic environment. This is the conclusion of a survey on the economic situation in 2023 conducted by the Spanish association for solids technology, Techsolids, among 92 Spanish companies in this industrial sector. Their positive expectations for 2024 have now also been confirmed. The general positive trend in the Spanish economy was also reflected in developments in the field of solids technology.

Over 60 per cent of the companies surveyed reported an increase in turnover in the first half of 2024. Ferran Simón, deputy director of Techsolids, emphasises: “This development is in line with the general resilience of the Spanish economy, which is above the eurozone average thanks to the recovery of industry, foreign investment and increased domestic demand. According to the association's analysis, several key aspects stand out that reflect the strength and potential of this industrial sector in Spain.

1. Diversification and specialisation

The Spanish solids technology sector is characterised by a high degree of specialisation and diversification. Fifty percent of the companies surveyed are manufacturers, 22.1 percent specialise in engineering and 16.2 percent in product representation. Thanks to this diversification, the sector can cover a wide range of industrial needs, from machine manufacturing to technical consulting.

2. Innovation as a growth driver

In 2023, 67.4 percent of companies carried out innovation activities, with a focus on product innovation (45.3 percent) and process innovation (43.4 percent). In addition, 12.77 percent of companies filed patents, demonstrating their commitment to continuous improvement and international competitiveness. The trend towards innovation appears to be unbroken.

3. Strong export orientation

83 per cent of companies exported goods or services in 2023, underscoring the importance of the international market for the sector. The most important export destinations include Portugal (19.5 per cent), France (17.2 per cent) and Mexico (8.1 per cent). This international orientation not only diversifies revenues but also strengthens the presence of Spanish companies in key markets. In 2024, there was a further increase in export activity. The United States, in particular, gained importance as an export market. ‘The latter is partly due to the need for advanced solutions for handling solid materials in the pharmaceutical and food industries,’ explains Simón. Latin America, especially Chile and Colombia, also saw stronger demand thanks to infrastructure and industrial modernisation projects.

He even sees a silver lining in the disaster: “In a broader context, the flooding has led to renewed interest in environmental and water management technologies, opening up potential for innovation in the field of solids processing in relation to sustainability and climate adaptation.” This could further increase the importance of the environment, waste management and recycling sector as a customer market for Spanish suppliers of solids technology. In 2023, this sector accounted for around 10.2 per cent of the total market. Growing environmental awareness also requires innovative solutions. Other significant customers were the food industry, which accounts for 18.9 per cent and has a global demand for technological solutions for processing and packaging. Similarly important for Spanish suppliers is the chemical industry (15.8 per cent), which relies on advanced technologies for handling solids.

Barriers and opportunities in the US market

The economic and customs policy of the Trump administration in the US could potentially become an obstacle to the development of solids technology suppliers in Spain. Increased tariffs or regulatory barriers could make access to the US market more difficult, especially for medium-sized companies. “However, thanks to its adaptability and innovative strength, the sector is well positioned to adapt to changing circumstances,” says Simon. He hopes that the US focus on domestic infrastructure and industry will have a positive effect. “This could create opportunities for high-performance niche technologies in which Spanish companies specialise. So, while there are challenges, there is also potential for strategic partnerships and localised production models to mitigate risks.”

Conclusion: Growth opportunities in a connected world

The Spanish solids technology sector is an important player in global industry thanks to its innovative capacity, strong export orientation and diversification in terms of markets and sectors. With a solid base in Europe and a growing presence in Latin America and other emerging markets, Spanish companies are well prepared to face future challenges and seize growth opportunities in an increasingly connected world.