The performance of the foreign market, which has seen negative growth rates up to June, was a key discussion point at the recent Vitartis Board of Directors meeting, held at the Prosol coffee company in Palencia.

Prior to the board meeting, members met with Carlos Martín Tobalina, Deputy Minister of Economics and Competitiveness, to gain insights into the foreign market situation, receive recommendations, and learn about support initiatives offered by the Junta de Castilla y León for export activities.

Employment in the Sector Exceeds 55,500

The “high dynamism of the sector”

Santiago Miguel also highlighted the “high dynamism of the sector,” referencing the latest employment figures from June’s EPA report, which show 55,530 people employed in the food industry in Castilla y León.

Of this total, over 51,000 (92%) are employees, with 85% holding indefinite contracts, “one of the most notable indicators that define quality use,” according to Santiago Miguel.

The Vitartis president also noted that the food and beverage industry in Castilla y León has almost doubled its employment figures in the last 25 years, growing from approximately 29,000 in 2000 to over 55,500 this past June.

“This data is clear evidence of our sector’s contribution to the advancement and well-being of the people of Castilla y León,” he added, “which is even more significant considering that much of the employment generated is located in the rural surroundings, where 45% of the food industries in the community are located.”

Challenges: Uncertainty and Increased Competition

Regarding the foreign market, Santiago Miguel informed the Board of Directors that exports slowed during the first half of 2025 due to a decline in consumption and increased production by companies in Eastern European countries and China.

These factors, combined with heightened uncertainty, have created a challenging environment for the region’s food exporters.