Economic Overview of the Murcia Region in Spain
PRIMARY SECTOR
AGRICULTURAL SECTOR
Agriculture in the Murcia region is a strategic sector, employing close to 10% of the workforce. 50% of the region’s land is dedicated to agriculture, with 67% dedicated to dry farming and the remaining 33% to irrigation.
Key crops include:
- 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. Consequently, farmers have adopted water-efficient technologies to manage scarcity and optimize water use. Water scarcity is a significant challenge due to irregular rainfall and high temperatures.
Organic Farming
Organic farming, also known as biological or ecological farming, is a sustainable approach to agriculture that prioritizes environmental respect and typically avoids the use of synthetic chemicals. 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.
Designation of Origin Products
- Wine (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 enhance productivity. Murcia’s livestock sector is recognized in Europe for its research and development (R&D). Improvements in livestock health, selection of native breeds, and introduction of imported breeds have enhanced profitability. Notable breeds include the Murciana-Granadina goat, the Segureña sheep, and the Lamb of La Sagra.
FISHING
Fishing has a long tradition in the Murcia region. Aquaculture, particularly the farming of species like sea bream, sea bass, and bluefin tuna, is a major contributor to the fishing industry’s profitability. The fishing fleet primarily consists of small-scale, artisanal vessels operating in coastal waters. Registered vessels operate from the ports of Cartagena, San Pedro del Pinatar, Lo Pagan, Mazarrón, La Azohía (fish traps), and Águilas.
SECONDARY SECTOR
INDUSTRY
Murcia’s industry is characterized by its dynamism, evident in the diversification and vitality of its various sectors. The proliferation of industrial estates (currently over 60) and technology centers highlights this growth. These centers specialize in 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 have a high export volume and are well-regarded in European markets. The meat industry is anchored by a significant pig farming sector. Within the beverage sector, the wine industry stands out.
Chemical Industry
Cartagena is a major hub for the chemical industry, hosting both traditional and large-scale industries. The area around the Escombreras Valley is a significant chemical center with cutting-edge technologies and global production capabilities. The Sabic polycarbonate plant (formerly General Electric Plastics), located between Cartagena and Fuente Álamo, is a prime example. The sector’s high export levels demonstrate its competitiveness.
Metallurgical Industry
The region is home to companies specializing in metal product manufacturing, excluding machinery and equipment.
Construction and Mechanical Equipment Industry
This sector is known for its strong export performance, particularly in finished metal articles. Shipbuilding also has a significant presence in the region, represented by the Navantia shipyard (formerly Bazán) in Cartagena.
Extractive Industries
The region is notable for the extraction of stones, sand, clay, and aggregates for construction, particularly marble. Murcia accounts for over 10% of national marble production.
Textile and Clothing Industry
Key activities include cotton and blended fabric production, knitwear manufacturing, carpet production, and other textile goods.
Leather and Footwear Manufacturing
This sector is primarily located in the region.
Energy
Both Iberdrola and Gas Natural have facilities in the Escombreras Valley. Water collection and distribution are also significant activities in the region.
TERTIARY SECTOR
TRADE AND SERVICES
Retail
Murcia ranks eleventh among Spanish autonomous communities in terms of the total number of retail businesses. Non-food products, including 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 businesses, department stores, convenience stores, street vendors, and open-air 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 in Murcia.
Financial Services
Financial services are provided by both private banks and publicly owned savings banks. Almost all major national institutions and banks have a presence in the region. Caja del Mediterráneo (CAM) and Cajamurcia, historically linked to the region, have a substantial branch network.
Professional Services
Both highly qualified professionals (lawyers, architects, doctors, consultants, etc.) and skilled tradespeople (plumbers, electricians, hairdressers, etc.) are distributed throughout the region.
TOURISM
Tourism is a major economic driver and employer in Murcia. The region’s tourism industry is characterized by its strong seasonality.
COMMUNICATIONS
Murcia’s railway network connects to both the Levante and the Central Plateau, converging in a common section between Alcantarilla and Alquerías. The region has seven ports: three commercial ports in Cartagena (a fishing port and two cargo terminals within the Bay of Cartagena and Escombreras) and four fishing ports (Mazarrón, Águilas, Lo Pagan, and San Pedro del Pinatar). Murcia also has a regional airport in San Javier.
CRAFT
Craftsmanship has a rich history in Murcia, reflecting the region’s unique cultural identity. Notable crafts include nativity scenes (Murcia is a leading national producer), silk (a major economic driver in the 18th and 19th centuries), Lorca embroidery (showcased during local festivals), esparto grass crafts, and ceramics and pottery.