Beyond urban and industrial areas, Galicia also offers very significant potential for economic development in its rural areas, key to generating sustainable and balanced growth
Agriculture and livestock: tradition and modernity
Agriculture and livestock have been pillars of the Galician economy for centuries. With a vast expanse of fertile land and a favourable climate, Galicia is ideal for producing a wide variety of agricultural products. Galician dairy products, quality meat, and seafood are recognised both in Spain and abroad. The implementation of new agricultural technologies, such as precision agriculture and the use of drones for crop surveillance, can significantly increase productivity. Moreover, ecological and sustainable production is booming, with a growing demand for organic products and new functional ingredients both nationally and internationally.
Livestock farming can also benefit from the integration of advanced management systems that improve animal welfare and production efficiency. Quality and origin certification initiatives, such as the prestigious Galicia Calidade seal, can add value to Galician rural products, making them more competitive in global markets.
Rural tourism
Rural tourism continues to be another sector with enormous potential in Galicia. The development of tourism infrastructure in rural areas, such as rural accommodations, restaurants, and outdoor leisure proposals (hiking, cycling, wine routes, etc.), can significantly stimulate the local economy. In addition, the promotion of authentic cultural experiences, such as traditional festivals, craft workshops, and local gastronomy, can attract a segment of tourists seeking unique and enriching experiences.
Sustainable and environmentally friendly tourism not only preserves Galicia’s natural beauty but also fosters equitable economic development, ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach local communities.
Renewable energy: A green future
Galicia has great potential in the field of renewable energy. With an extensive coastline and constant winds, the region is ideal for wind energy. Rivers and reservoirs allow for significant use of hydroelectric power. Solar energy, although less exploited, also presents important opportunities, especially with the advancement of photovoltaic technology.
Investment in renewable energy projects not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also generates employment and revitalizes the local economy. The creation of wind farms, hydroelectric and solar plants can transform rural areas, providing additional income and improving local infrastructure.
In this context, the Xunta advocates developing an integrated and responsible industrial policy strategy to make sustainable use of Galicia’s natural resources, with the promotion of the Natural Resources Law project. This regulation will help revitalize rural areas, as the location of business projects of common interest that have a positive impact on the territory will contribute to combating depopulation, the degradation of natural spaces, and will help fight against the effects of climate change. In short, it will increase the resilience of the rural environment itself, but also that of society as a whole, as the projects will facilitate social revitalization, not only through direct employment but also through the compensations that are established.
Entrepreneurship and SMEs: Innovation and growth
Promoting entrepreneurship in rural areas is essential to harness their full economic potential. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the main engine of the Galician economy, and the rural environment offers fertile ground for their development. Entrepreneurship support initiatives, such as business incubators, training programmes, and access to financing offered by the Xunta stimulate the creation of new businesses in diverse sectors such as technology, biotechnology, tourism, and sustainable agriculture.
Moreover, the digitalization of rural areas is crucial. Improved internet connectivity and access to digital technologies allow rural businesses to compete on equal terms with urban ones. Teleworking and e-commerce platforms open up new opportunities for rural entrepreneurs, facilitating the sale of products and services to a global market.
