This September we present the digital economy barometer in the framework of the Meeting of the Digital Economy and Telecommunications, #Santander39. Among the main data revealed by the report, he confirmed what we already sensed: digitalization in Spain is already a fundamental pillar for our economy. In 2024, the sector already represented 26% of GDP, more than 7.4% compared to the previous year.
Now, the figures are just the tip of the iceberg. They are proof of a much deeper reality. The relevant and the truly hopeful here is that digitalization is no longer limited to the technological sector: it has become the engine of all productive sectors. Industry, tourism, education, energy, health or mobility are redefining their respective business models around technology. That transversality is the best proof that we are facing an irreversible change. Digitization is no longer an addition, it is the basis on which our economic and social development is built.
There are many sectors that have experienced great advances thanks to the implementation of new technologies. For example, tourism, with the application of artificial intelligence and advanced analytics allows you to adjust the supply to the demand in real time and improve the experience of the traveler. In agriculture, meanwhile, digitalization is already key to a more rational use of resources as scarce as water. The list is extensive.
However, if we want these advances to translate into economic growth for the whole country, we must ensure that this revolution reaches all companies, regardless of their size or activity. We must ensure that digitalization also reaches SME, the small trade and the startup born in any Spanish city. Only in this way will the digital economy really be Economic Development Lever.
Spain is a country of SMEs. They represent more than 99% of our companies and support more than 60% of employment. Its role is key, and yet they are also the most fragile link in the chain if we talk about digitalization. Many large companies have accelerated in recent years in areas such as artificial intelligence, automation or intensive data, while an important part of SMEs follows insufficient or superficial technological adoption.
A business digital gap that leaves those who are not able to make the leap is serious, but more serious if those companies suppose most of your business fabric. Hinders progress and economic well -being. In addition, that gap does not translate only into less competitiveness, but in territorial inequality, loss of opportunities and a weaker business scenario before a more competitive global panorama.
Initiatives such as the Digital Kit have meant an important first step to facilitate access to digital solutions to thousands of SMEs throughout the territory. It is now our duty and responsibility, both in the public and private sphere, to accompany these companies in training, in the advice and practical implementation of these tools, so that the investment does not remain in a specific subsidy, but in a real and sustained transformation in time.
Another aspect that hinders not only the digitalization of SMEs, but of the whole of our economy, is the shortage of digital profiles. There is no doubt that it is a problem that we must solve urgently. But perhaps it is time to change the approach: beyond forming highly qualified specialists, we also need to democratize access to basic and advanced digital skills.
An entrepreneur who understands the possibilities of artificial intelligence for his business, a worker who dominates automation tools or a health professional who integrates data analysis in their daily practice are examples of how digital talent is not only measured in experts, but in citizens and workers who know how to use technology in their day to day.
In short, the barometer gives us figures that show strength and growth, but what we have ahead is even more relevant: defining how we want that digital economy to be a true progress lever for the whole country.
The challenge is not to grow in billing, but that this growth reaches the entire business fabric and translates to quality, productivity and well -being employment. And for this we need three things: accompany SMEs in their digitalization, democratize digital talent and guarantee a stable environment that favors investment and innovation.
Spain has strategic sectors, with a favorable macroeconomic base and an increasingly dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. The key now is not to leave anyone behind.
