In early 2025, Barcelona hosted the Mobile World Congress (MWC), drawing global tech leaders and showcasing its rapid rise in digital infrastructure and investment. While the Czech Republic is known for semiconductor production in Taiwan, Spain stands out as the top EU recipient of funding for digital and tech initiatives.
This shift is part of a wider European strategy to build a self-reliant and secure tech industry.
MWC 2025 Highlights Barcelona’s Growing Influence
Barcelona welcomed thousands of tech experts and investors during MWC 2025. The event offered a close look at the latest trends in mobile technology, artificial intelligence, and 5G development.
Local officials and EU representatives used the occasion to promote Barcelona as a long-term investment hub. Key speakers emphasized the city’s readiness for next-generation technology and praised its access to talent, infrastructure, and public funding.
The DIGITIMES team, a global technology media group, visited Barcelona to understand how the city is attracting both startups and global tech giants.
Strong EU Support Fuels Spain’s Tech Boom
Spain now receives more European Union funding for digital projects than any other country in the bloc. This includes major support from the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility, which aims to make Europe greener, more digital, and more resilient after COVID-19.
A large part of this funding goes toward building chip design centers, data hubs, and AI research facilities. Spanish cities, especially Barcelona and Madrid, are focusing on smart city programs, green energy tech, and digital education.
This strategic direction puts Spain ahead in Europe’s race to become less dependent on foreign technology—especially from China and the United States.
US-China Tech Rivalry Pushes Investors Toward Europe
The ongoing rivalry between the US and China in areas like semiconductors, AI, and 5G is reshaping global supply chains. Western tech firms are now under pressure to reduce their reliance on Chinese suppliers and markets.
Europe is stepping in to fill the gap, and Barcelona is leading the charge.
A recent report from the European Commission showed a 23% rise in foreign direct investment (FDI) in Spain’s tech sector from 2023 to 2024. Much of this growth comes from American and Asian companies looking for a safer and more neutral base.
According to market analyst Carla Rivas of EuroTech Insights, “Barcelona offers a balanced mix of EU support, political stability, and tech talent. That makes it a top choice for investors seeking alternatives to China.”
Barcelona’s Digital Talent Pool Keeps Growing
One of Barcelona’s biggest advantages is its highly skilled workforce. The city has over 30 universities and tech training centers. Programs in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software engineering are growing rapidly.
International tech firms are also partnering with local schools to develop industry-ready graduates.
Global companies like Cisco, HP, and Microsoft have already opened research centers or innovation labs in the city. Meanwhile, local startups such as Glovo and Wallbox continue to scale up and attract international funding.
Semiconductor Spotlight: Czech Republic Still Leads in One Area
While Barcelona is rising overall, the Czech Republic remains a key player in Europe’s semiconductor sector. Taiwanese companies see Czechia as a production hub due to its existing facilities and lower costs.
However, Spain is gaining ground by investing in advanced chip design and microelectronics research. The Spanish government has announced several public-private partnerships in the chip sector, including plans for a new design center in Catalonia.
These efforts are part of the EU Chips Act, which seeks to make Europe more competitive in the global chip industry.
Spain’s Broader Role in EU Tech Policy
Spain holds a strategic position in shaping Europe’s tech future. As a member of the EU Digital Decade strategy, it supports goals like digital inclusion, cybersecurity, and digital skills training.
In 2024, Spain also launched its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, backed by €600 million in funding. This program focuses on ethical AI, public sector digitalization, and AI-powered health solutions.
All of this makes Spain—not just Barcelona—a rising force in global technology development.
Challenges Remain as Europe Builds Its Tech Base
Despite this progress, Europe still faces challenges. Talent shortages in some regions, regulatory complexity, and energy costs remain obstacles. Experts also warn that the EU must speed up innovation to compete with the US and China.
