See the main facts about Catalonia

Catalonia, a privileged location on the Mediterranean

With 20% of the GDP, Catalonia is the most important region in Spain in economic terms and is one of the main economic motors of southern Europe. Due to its strategic location, Catalonia is an ideal gateway to Europe as well as the Latin American, North American and Middle Eastern markets.

The capital, Barcelona, is ranked fifth for business in Europe, the third for investment and one of the five best places to hold international congresses.

There are more than 3,000 international companies present in Barcelona, 40% of which have done business here for more than 10 years.

Main facts:

• Population: 7.4 million
• Area: 32,106 km2 
• 2009 GDP: 195,400 million euros
• 2009 per capita GDP: 26,831 euros 
• 2009 Exports: 41,160 million euros
• 2009 Imports: 58,800 million euros
• 2008 Total R&D expenditure: 1.61% of the GDP