Economic Overview of the Murcia Region in Spain
PRIMARY SECTOR
AGRICULTURAL SECTOR
Agriculture in the Murcia region is a strategic sector in the regional economy, employing close to 10% of the workforce. 50% of the region’s total area is dedicated to agricultural land, with 67% used for dry farming and the remaining 33% for irrigation.
Key Crops:
- Peach
- Apricot
- Melon
- Lemon
- Tomato
- Lettuce
- Peppers
- Grapes
- Olives
- Broccoli
- Almonds
- Barley
Food production for export is a key aspect of the Murcia region’s economy. The Segura River Basin, the primary water source, only meets 76% of the agricultural sector’s needs. To combat water scarcity due to irregular rainfall and high temperatures, farmers have adopted water-efficient technologies and practices.
Organic Farming
Organic farming, also known as biological or ecological farming, is a sustainable approach to agriculture that prioritizes environmental respect and typically avoids chemical inputs. The Autonomous Community of Murcia actively promotes organic farming through dedicated support programs.
Regulatory boards under the Ministry of Agriculture oversee the implementation of production standards for Murcia’s Designation of Origin products, which include:
- Wines (Yecla, Jumilla, and Bullas)
- Calasparra rice
- Murcia paprika
- Jumilla pear
LIVESTOCK
While the number of farms has decreased, the remaining farms have expanded and modernized to boost productivity. Murcia’s livestock sector is recognized in Europe for its research and development (R&D). Improvements in animal health, selection of native breeds, and introduction of imported breeds have enhanced livestock profitability. Notable breeds include the Murciana-Granadina goat and the Lamb of Segura and La Sagra.
FISHING
Fishing has a long tradition in the Murcia region. However, aquaculture, particularly the farming of species like sea bream, sea bass, and bluefin tuna, is the most profitable fishing activity today. The fishing fleet primarily consists of small-scale, artisanal vessels operating in coastal waters. Registered vessels are distributed among the ports of Cartagena, San Pedro del Pinatar, Lo Pagan, Mazarrón, La Azohía (fishing trap), and Águilas.
SECONDARY SECTOR
INDUSTRY
Murcia’s industry is characterized by its dynamism, diversification, and vitality across various sectors. The proliferation of industrial estates (over 60) and technology centers (around 10) highlights this growth. These centers specialize in diverse fields such as footwear, metalworking, marble, new technologies, and environmental technologies.
Food and Beverage Industry
The region specializes in producing canned vegetables, juices, fruit drinks, jams, preserves, frozen vegetables, table olives, pickles, and related products. These products enjoy high export volumes and recognition in European markets. The meat industry thrives on the region’s significant pig farming sector. Within the beverage sector, the wine industry stands out.
Chemical Industry
Cartagena is a major chemical hub, hosting both traditional and large-scale industries. The area around the Escombreras Valley boasts cutting-edge technologies and global production capabilities. The Sabic polycarbonate plant (formerly General Electric Plastics), located between Cartagena and Fuente Álamo, is a prominent example. The sector’s high export levels demonstrate its competitiveness.
Metallurgical Industry
Murcia’s metallurgical industry focuses on manufacturing metal products, excluding machinery and equipment. The construction machinery and mechanical equipment sector excels in international marketing, particularly for finished metal articles. Shipbuilding, with a long tradition in the region, is represented by the Navantia shipyard (formerly Bazán) in Cartagena.
Other Industries
Extractive industries play a significant role, particularly in the extraction of stones, sand, clay, and aggregates for construction. Marble extraction is noteworthy, accounting for over 10% of national production. The textile and clothing industry primarily focuses on cotton and blended fabrics, knitwear, carpets, and other textile products. Leather and footwear manufacturing is also present. Energy production facilities operated by Iberdrola and Gas Natural are located in the Escombreras Valley. Water collection and distribution are crucial activities in the region.
TERTIARY SECTOR
TRADE AND SERVICES
Murcia ranks eleventh among Spanish autonomous communities in terms of the total number of retail businesses. Non-food products, clothing, footwear, and home goods account for 59% of retail businesses. Food-related businesses, including traditional shops and supermarkets, represent 33%. The remaining 8% comprises mixed-trade department stores, supermarkets, convenience stores, street vendors, and flea markets.
The region’s 45 municipalities are grouped into three business areas represented by Chambers of Commerce in Lorca, Murcia, and Cartagena.
Wholesale Trade
Food, beverages, and agricultural raw materials dominate wholesale trade in the Murcia region.
Services
The services sector is a significant source of employment and investment. Financial services are provided by both private banks and publicly owned savings banks. Almost all major national institutions and banks have a presence, with Caja del Mediterráneo (CAM) and Cajamurcia historically linked to the region.
Professional services, ranging from highly skilled professionals (lawyers, architects, doctors, consultants) to tradespeople (plumbers, electricians, hairdressers), are widespread.
TOURISM
Tourism is a major economic driver and employer in Murcia. The region’s tourism industry is characterized by its distinct seasonality.
COMMUNICATIONS
railway network in the Region of Murcia has two main areas related to Levante and the Central Plateau, respectively, converge in a common section between Sewell and Alquerías.La Murcia has 7 ports that develop commercial activities in Cartagena 3 (a fishing port and two bays located inside the bay of Cartagena and tailings) and 4 fishing ports (Located in Mazarron, Aguilas and Lo Pagan San Pedro del Pinatar) is a regional airport in San Javier and Corvera. CRAFT The craft has been very important in the region over the centuries, and has been and is a clear indication of their uniqueness. Nativity scenes, of which we are the leading domestic producer, the Silk, the main engine of our economy during the eighteenth and nineteenth Lorca embroidery, shown in all its glory in our festivals, the esparto, or ceramics and pottery are clear examples