Regional economic development and industrial labor challenges

In Uruguay, authorities and specialists met at the Universidad de la República to discuss development strategies for 2050. The discussion focused on addressing productive and social differences between territories, expanding access to knowledge, and utilizing technological advancements without increasing existing inequalities. Key priority sectors identified include smart agro-industry, creative industries, tourism, logistics, life sciences, and information technologies.

In Spain, the metal sector faces a significant demographic and training challenge, with estimates suggesting a need for approximately 350,000 new workers by 2030. This demand is driven by upcoming retirements and growth in sectors such as the defense industry. Required expertise includes mechatronics, electronics, robotics, and electricity. Industry leaders emphasize the urgent need to adapt vocational training to factory realities to fill vacancies for both engineers and technical specialists.