The Tarragona Chamber of Commerce has temporarily suspended its trade missions to the region, including those scheduled for Jordan and Lebanon between June 1 and 5, and another to Iraq that was planned for mid-April. This decision adds to the postponement of trips to Oman (scheduled for November 9-13), Israel, and Saudi Arabia, which were on the calendar for 2026.
“"The effects are already cascading, and they affect the global economy in one way or another. No economy is spared."
This situation is causing an increase in energy costs and widespread uncertainty that is paralyzing international business. According to Roberto Barros, head of internationalization at the Tarragona Chamber of Commerce, the impact is even felt in African countries like Uganda, Rwanda, or Gabon, where increases of 15% or 20% are observed in raw material and fertilizer costs, and a reduction in commercial travel due to rising flight prices.
The president of the Business Confederation of the Province of Tarragona (Cepta), Xavier Rigau, confirmed that local real estate developers have postponed investments in Dubai and Qatar for security reasons, although they have not canceled them. Rigau expressed concern about the uncertainty, while clarifying that the direct impact on the territory is not excessive, beyond the increase in fuel prices.
“"SMEs are very sensitive to energy costs. There is uncertainty."
For his part, Jordi Ciuraneta, president of Pimec in Tarragona, highlighted the vulnerability of small and medium-sized enterprises to rising energy costs, especially diesel. This situation affects sectors such as chemicals, logistics, transport, construction, and agri-food, making business decision-making difficult due to volatility and uncertainty.
