Galicia R&D spending rises 7.5% to €347 million

In 2024 Galicia increased its internal research and development (R&D) expenditure by 7.5%, reaching €346.8 million, up from €322.7 million in 2023. The region’s share of Spain’s total R&D spending in high‑ and medium‑high‑technology sectors held steady at 3.7%.

Despite the higher investment, the number of full‑time‑equivalent R&D staff fell 6.9% to 4,336, reducing Galicia’s share of national research personnel from 5.4% to 4.7%. The manufacturing base grew, with establishments rising 6.3% to 1,171, while turnover decreased 3% to €13.206 billion. Value added, however, rose 6.6% to €2.424 billion. Within high‑tech, the pharmaceutical sector led growth, posting a 22% increase in revenue to €267.7 million.

Regional R&D plans across Spain aim to boost innovation, support SMEs, foster university‑industry collaboration, improve competitiveness and develop skilled talent, positioning regions like Galicia for future economic resilience.