Exports drop 0.5% in July despite 6.9% increase in sales to US ahead of tariffs

Catalan exports to the United States of America increased by 6.9% in July, compared to the same period the previous year, registering €448 million, according to data from Spain's finance ministry published on Tuesday.

The increase was recorded before tariffs imposed by the US administration, led by Donald Trump, were expected to come into force on August 7.

Sales to the US contrast with Catalonia's overall exports, which registered a 0.5% drop compared to 2024 figures. In total, Catalonia sold €9.20 billion worth of goods abroad.

Based on the ministry's figures, the chemical sector led in exports with €2.62 billion in sales abroad, despite a 14.6% drop on 2024 figures. This was followed by beverages and tobacco, with sales worth €1.57 billion, up 12.6% on the previous year.

The European Union continued to be Catalonia's biggest market, reaching €5.46 billion, followed by the Americas, Asia, and Africa.

Between January and July, Catalonia exported €60.31 billion, an increase of 1.1% compared to the same period last year.

Imports rose by 7.6% in July, reaching €10.37 billion, and surpassing €68.55 billion (4.8% more) since the start of the year.

Across Spain, exports in July rose by 3.5% to €34.41 billion, and there were 5.3% more imports, worth €38.42 billion.