Construction sector labor shortages in Spain and Andorra

The construction sector in Spain and Andorra is experiencing a significant labor shortage, primarily driven by a lack of generational replacement. In Spain, data shows that workers under 30 have decreased from 20% to less than 5% of the workforce over the last twenty years, while those over 45 now make up 65% of the sector.

In Zaragoza, business owners have reported being unable to accept new contracts due to a lack of qualified personnel. Similarly, in Andorra, the Association of Construction Contractors (Acoda) warned that the shortage could cause delays in ongoing projects, noting that current government measures to increase hiring quotas are insufficient.

Individual accounts from workers in Spain highlight a high demand for skilled labor, with some experienced professionals receiving multiple job offers within days. This scarcity is attributed to a lack of interest among people aged 18 to 30 in learning trades. Observers note that the issue is not driven by low wages, as sector salaries can exceed those of some university-educated roles, but rather by a shift in interest and the increasing complexity of the profession, which now requires expertise in specialized installations like solar panels and air conditioning.