Exports from the Valencian Community remained broadly stable in the first two months of 2026, with stronger trade to Europe helping offset weaker demand in other world markets.
According to regional officials, total exports reached €6.24 billion, flat year-on-year, outperforming the wider Spain result, where national exports declined 1.8% over the same period.
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The key driver was demand from the European Union, where Valencian exports rose 5.1%, ahead of overall European growth of 2.7%. The figures underline how nearby European markets are increasingly acting as a stabilising force for exporters amid global uncertainty.
Within Europe, France remained the region's largest customer, accounting for 13.7% of exports and growing 8.2%. Germany ranked second with 12.5% of exports, up 2.7%. Other important destinations included Italy, Portugal and the Netherlands.
Sector-wise, capital goods led growth with a 19.2% increase, particularly machinery and electrical equipment. Chemical products also expanded 4.2%, reinforcing their role in the export mix.
By province, Castellón posted the strongest growth, rising 2.1% to €1.54 billion, helped by fertilisers, machinery and agri-food products. Valencia increased 1.0% to €3.48 billion, while Alicante recorded a 5.4% decline.
The region also maintained a positive trade balance, with a 101.5% coverage rate and a €94.3 million surplus, contrasting with Spain's national trade deficit of more than €7.3 billion.
For manufacturers and exporters, the data highlights a growing strategic trend: regional, shorter-distance European trade is becoming more important as geopolitical tensions and slower global demand reshape export flows.
Source: www.elespanol.com
