Despite the growth, the report highlights significant structural weaknesses. Carles Mas, PIMEC's economic director, warned that 40% of member companies face 'compromised viability,' with 17% reporting losses last year due to high energy and fuel prices.
“"We see a strong correlation between company size and profitability; the business fabric here is extremely fragmented."
The region's economy is heavily dependent on the primary sector, which accounts for 27% of activity. Borja Solans emphasized that 80% of local firms are micro-businesses, making it difficult to achieve economies of scale. Other hurdles include a shortage of skilled labor and limited industrial land for expansion.
