In 2023, SMEs in Spain faced a difficult economic climate as rising interest rates and product prices impacted their financing needs. Despite this, there was still a significant decrease in short-term growth prospects for SMEs. The report found that only 17.8% of companies reported growth and improvement, while 38.1% stated that their economic situation had worsened compared to the previous year. However, there were some positive signs, such as an increase in the number of SMEs selling in foreign markets and engaging in innovation activities.
Looking ahead to the future, the report indicated that short-term growth prospects for SMEs would continue to decline. The percentage of companies expecting their turnover to increase in the next 12 months declined, while the number of SMEs planning to expand their workforce decreased. Bank loans remained the most commonly used financial products by SMEs in 2023, but there was a notable decrease in non-bank financing compared to the previous year.
The business services sector saw the largest increase in the number of SMEs in 2023, followed by education, health, and construction industries. However, the commerce and personal services sector experienced a decline in the number of companies. Despite these challenges, there were opportunities for SMEs to grow through international expansion and innovation activities.
Overall, the report highlighted both challenges and opportunities for SMEs in Spain regarding financing, growth prospects, and sector performance. As such