Ministry News for 2012

All press releases

Information Society and Digital Agenda | 12/27/2012

The Government approves the General Telecommunications Bill

The bill simplifies administrative procedures to ensure operators invest in the deployment of new networks, restores unity to the market and sets the terms for investment in ultra-fast fixed and mobile networks. Users will see improved coverage, faster internet speeds and reduced prices and costs. User protection will also improve. The minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, Jose Manuel Soria, schedules a new structural reform to foster competitiveness, create jobs and consolidate the investments of telecommunications operators, which could amount to 25 billion euros in the next few years.
Energy | 12/27/2012

As of April, households and SMEs will be able to return to the two-monthly electronic billing system

The bills of domestic consumers and SMEs (up to 15 KW) will be based on actual meter readings, performed every two months. The regulation, with which the Government aims to ensure that consumers pay only for what they consume, will come into effect in April. Consumers may keep the monthly billing system if they prefer. There is a new possibility for consumers to read their own electricity meters.
The Ministry | 12/26/2012

The minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism presents the Digital Agenda for Spain and the National Tourism Plan

Jose Manuel Soria reported on the execution of the Comprehensive National Tourism Plan (PNIT), approved last summer, and the Digital Agenda for Spain, which sets out the Government's strategy for developing the digital society and economy for the period 2013-2015 and incorporates the European targets for 2020. The Agenda will be organised into nine plans that will enable better execution and co-ordination of the ICT and Electronic Administration policies. The minister said that 28% of the Comprehensive National Tourism Plan has been executed and that 85% of the 100 plus proposed measures are now being implemented.
Tourism | 12/20/2012

A total of 55.1 million international tourists visited Spain from January to November, an increase of 2.9%

During this period there was an increase in the number of visitors from the United Kingdom, Germany, France and the Nordic Countries. A total of 3 million international tourists visited Spain in November, 0.2% more than in the same month in 2011.
Industry | 12/19/2012

José Manuel Soria gives a talk at the Informative Breakfast organised by Europa Press.

During the Europa Press informative breakfast, the minister talked about the Fiscal Measures Act and the upcoming regulation of the telecommunications sector
Tourism | 12/12/2012

The minister of Industry. Energy and Tourism presides over the “Turista Mil Millones” [One Billionth Tourist] event

The tourist representing this landmark, a British man who will be spending four days in Spain, was received by Minister José Manuel Soria, the Secretary of State for Tourism, Isabel Borrego, and the Secretary General of the UNWTO, Taleb Rifai. Spain has received around 700 million tourists since the year 2000.
Industry | 12/10/2012

The Government promotes the internationalisation of high-tech industries

The minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, and the Secretary of State for Trade, from the Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, Jaime García-Legaz, have signed an agreement to launch a Plan to promote the internationalisation of high-tech industrial sectors. A total of 6 million euros are being earmarked for the internationalisation of these sectors. ICEX España Exportación e Inversiones will channel these funds through different actions in external markets. ICEX is to sign collaboration agreements with CERSA and ENISA to extend the use of technical and financial guarantees and participative loans as financing instruments for industrial companies embarking on internationalisation processes. Priority will be given to the projects with the greatest export potential within the programmes for the Promotion of Business Competitiveness and Reindustrialisation, from the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism.
Industry | 12/9/2012

The minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism supports the reinforcement of European industrial policy approved by the Competitiveness Council.

José Manuel Soria supported the conclusions that back up the objectives set in the update of the Communication "A stronger European Industry for Growth and Economic Recovery". Spain is committed to increasing joint efforts to boost competitiveness and the weight of the industrial sector in the economy, as the basis for recovery, growth and job creation.Spain gave its backing to the Communication “CARS 2020: Action Plan for a competitive and sustainable automotive industry in Europe”, which was also discussed during the Council meeting.
Information Society and Digital Agenda | 12/9/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism and AENOR are working to achieve standardisation in the field of Smart Cities.

The Spanish Committee for the Standardisation of Smart Cities has been set up. It will channel and coordinate the work to draft regulations to govern areas such as infrastructure, indicators and semantics, mobility, energy and the environment.
Information Society and Digital Agenda | 12/4/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism earmarks €218.5 million in subsidies for 245 innovative ITC projects

The 245 projects financed encompass 381 beneficiaries as around 38% of the projects presented involved a number of participants. A total of 78.5% of the beneficiaries are SMEs, compared to 59.2% last year; this meets the Government's objective of focusing subsidies on business development and job creation.
Industry | 12/3/2012

The ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria opens the new Loewe facilities in Getafe

José Manuel Soria learned about the craft and production work carried out by this company in the El Lomo industrial park in Getafe. These facilities will become Loewe's global headquarters for research and development of materials and leather; they have been extended to 15,000 square metres and 180 new jobs have been created.
Tourism | 12/3/2012

The minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism awards the Tourism Merit Medals and Plaques

The purpose of these awards is to recognise the people, institutions, companies and destinations that, in a notable and extraordinary way, have contributed to the development and promotion of tourism.
Industry | 12/2/2012

Mr Soria visits the Ford plant in Almussafes, Valencia

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, visited the Ford factory in Almussafes, Valencia, this morning together with the President of the Regional Government of Valencia, Alberto Fabra, for the presentation of the new model, the Ford Kuga.
Tourism | 11/27/2012

International tourists spent €49.866 billion up to October, an increase of 6.4 %

The United Kingdom, Germany, France and the Nordic countries were the markets that contributed most to the rise in spending in the first 10 months of 2012, with Catalonia, the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands being the regions that most benefited during this period. In October, tourist expenditure stood at €4.760 billion, the same as a year ago.
The Ministry | 11/27/2012

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism looks back over the Government's first year in office

The minister was accompanied by the Secretaries of State for Tourism, Telecommunications and Energy, as well as Esperanza Aguirre.
Trade | 11/26/2012

Minister Soria closes the 125th Assembly of Chambers of Commerce

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, today closed the 125th General Assembly of Chambers of Commerce.
Industry | 11/26/2012

4th High Level Spain-Turkey Meeting held in Madrid

The 4th High Level Spain-Turkey Meeting has been held in Madrid, with the participation of the Spanish Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Defence, Industry, Energy and Tourism, Development, and Education, Culture and Sports, and their Turkish counterparts. The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, held meetings with the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Taner Yildiz and the Minister of Finance, Zafer Caglayan
Tourism | 11/21/2012

Nearly 52.1 million international tourists visited Spain from January to October, an increase of 3.1%

The number of Russian tourists was up by 41% in the first ten months of 2012, compared to the same period last year.The number of visitors from this country has doubled in the last two years.In October 5.1 million international tourists visited Spain, 3.2% down on 2011 when numbers were up by 9.4%.
Industry | 11/20/2012

José Manuel Soria accompanies the President of the Government to the presentation of the Renault Industrial Plan 2014-2016

The plan will result in the creation of 1,300 jobs and the production of four new car models.
Tourism | 11/20/2012

The Spanish Tourism Offices, which are dependent on the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism, receive the National Gastronomy Award

The Royal Academy of Gastronomy in Spain has unanimously agreed to award the prize to the offices for their work promoting gastronomy and gastronomic tourism. At Fitur2013 a plaque will be awarded to each of the 33 offices that make up the network of Spanish Tourism Offices abroad.
Tourism | 11/19/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism is earmarking 48 million euros for young entrepreneurs and innovative tourism projects

Two new financing tranches are being opened in the Emprendetur programme, one aimed at people under 40 and the other at companies with R&D projects or innovative products.They are loans with more favourable conditions than those offered on the market and, in the case of young entrepreneurs, they will not need to present guarantees.
Industry | 11/19/2012

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism opens the Industry Summit of the Spanish Confederation of Employers and Industries (CEOE)

The main aim of the Summit is to reassert the role of industry as an essential economic sector.
Tourism | 11/15/2012

Minister Soria meets hoteliers in Barcelona

The minister for Industry, Energy and Tourism José Manuel Soria has met today with representatives of the Gremio de Hoteles de Barcelona (Barcelona Hotel Association). Among the latter was the president of the association, Jordi Clos. The minister has explained the measures that are being taken from public and private sectors to help Barcelona, Catalonia and Spain benefit from the notable boom that the world tourism sector will experience in the coming years.
Tourism | 11/14/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism expects to close the year of 2012 with 30% more Chinese tourists

The Secretary of State for Tourism is attending the opening of the CITM Fair in Shanghai, the largest tourism fair in Asia. During the first nine months of the year, 121,342 Chinese tourists visited Spain, an increase of 36%, and much higher than expected for 2012.
Energy | 11/11/2012

Minister Soria opens the renewable energies forum "A new horizon”

The minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, today opened the renewable energies forum “A new horizon”, which is organised by Kreab Gavin Anderson, Cuatrecasas Gonçalves Pereira and Livingstone Partners. In his speech, the minister defended the Government's objective to increase and consolidate the percentage share of renewable energy in the Spanish energy mix, both due to EU commitments and to the more prominent role renewables are expected to play in the future in light of the world's growing demand for energy and its effect on fossil fuels.
Industry | 11/7/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism celebrates World Quality Day

The General Secretary for Industry and SMEs Luis Valero took part today in the World Quality Day event held in the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism headquarters. The theme was: "We did it together". The event is part of the European Quality Week celebrations held each year in November across the European Union. The event is now in its 18th year.
Tourism | 11/7/2012

Following proposals from the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism, the Council of Ministers has announced the winners of the Touristic Merit medals and plaques

Chef Martín Berasategui has been awarded the Touristic Merit Medal for Promotion. The Touristic Merit medal for Innovation has been awarded to Abel Matutes Prats for his conversion of the Ushuaia Beach Hotel and for revitalising Ibiza's d’en Bossa beach. Alejandro del Castillo y Bravo de Laguna, winner of the Touristic Merit Medal for his extraordinary services to tourism, is the driving force behind the strategic plan to convert “Maspalomas, Costa Canaria” into a destination for tourists seeking leisure and rest. Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism awards five Touristic Merit Medals and two Plaques.
Tourism | 11/6/2012

Minster of Industry, Energy and Tourism José Manuel Soria visits the Science and Technology Park of Tourism and Leisure

The minister has visited Rovira i Virgili University, accompanied by the Dean of the university's Faculty of Tourism. During the visit, the Minister saw the strategies implemented to supply the tourism sector, the largest in Spain in terms of economy, with more human capital, in other words, talent. The sector currently accounts for 11 of every 100 euros produced by the Spanish economy.
Energy | 11/6/2012

First Mediterranean Congress on Energy Efficiency and Smart Green Cities

The Minster of Industry, Energy and Tourism has inaugurated the First Mediterranean Congress on Energy Efficiency and Smart Green Cities. The congress is aimed at entrepreneurs, business owners, and representatives from public administrations, professional associations and higher education in general interested in discussing and pooling ideas relating to energy, construction and rehabilitation, water, chemistry, ICTs, etc. and in stimulating the growth of these emerging smart economy sectors
Industry | 11/6/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism and the Valencia Export Institute work together to support internationalisation

Director General of Industry and SMEs and President of ENISA, Manuel Valle, and Regional Minister of Economy, Industry and Trade of the Generalitat of Valencia, Máximo Buch Torralva, signed the collaboration agreement in the presence of Secretary General of Industry and SMEs, Luis Valero. The institutions will carry out joint activities to boost support for the creation, growth and consolidation of companies, offering them advice and financing.
Tourism | 11/4/2012

The minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism highlights the fact that more than 11 million British nationals visited Spain this year

In the first nine months of the year, British tourist spending in Spain was up by 8% to 9,221 million euros. A total of 85% of the British nationals who travel to Spain are repeat visitors, and 42.5% return up to ten times. Spain has the highest repeat visit of all tourist destinations. Spain will have a a 2,870 square metre stand at this edition of the London fair, a global reference point for the sector. Turespaña occupies 1,001 square metres and 62 private and public entities are taking part in the stand.
Industry | 10/29/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism and the Ministry of Defence sign a protocol to promote industrial property

The protocol is designed to help the Ministry of Defence promote knowledge and use of industrial property rights in its R&D&i programmes The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism has offered to supply Ministry of Defence personnel with information and specifically designed training courses on the protection of industrial property rights. For this purpose, the Spanish Patent and Trademark Office (OEPM) will create a permanent consulting service for Ministry of Defence personnel.
Energy | 10/29/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism presents the Tiepolo Award to the chairman of Endesa

The ceremony was attended by Ignacio González, president of the Autonomous Region of Madrid, and Madrid's Mayor Ana Botella.
Industry | 10/28/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism at the Spain Algeria Economic Forum

José Manuel Soria champions corporate alliances in the energy, industry and tourism sectors.
Tourism | 10/28/2012

International tourists spent €6.242 billion in September, an increase of 13.4 %

From January to September, tourist spending rose to 45.106 billion euros, 7.2% more than in the same period in 2011. The UK and Germany were the markets contributing most to September's growth, and the Balearic Islands and Catalonia were the regions that benefited most.
Industry | 10/25/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism will allocate subsidies worth a total of 182.6 million euros to 288 reindustrialisation projects through its general and relocation calls for tenders.

Of the 288 projects, 241 are industrial enterprise initiatives that will receive 162.3 million euros in the form of loans, representing an investment of 263.7 million euros in fixed assets in 2012. The remaining 47 projects involve public industrial infrastructures, and will receive 20.3 million euros.
Energy | 10/24/2012

In the early hours of next Sunday morning, 28 October, clocks must be put back one hour

Official summer time, as established by an EU directive affecting all member states of the European Union, will end this weekend. According to the estimates of the Energy Savings and Diversification Institute, the measure could save up to 5% in lighting between March and October, a figure equivalent to 300 million Euro.
Industry | 10/22/2012

Latin American Industry ministers agree to foster the competitiveness of Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME)

The ministers approve a Final Declaration on the importance of MSMEs for the Latin American economy and the need to establish an open and competitive business climate. They also stress the importance of sectors linked to economic sustainability, of tourism and public-private cooperation. The ministers signed the Latin American MSME Charter, which sets out a series of shared principles, such as equal opportunities or legal security, which will inform public policy and the definition of support instruments for Latin American MSMEs, promoting the establishment of long-term business projects to generate activity and jobs. The minister for Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, who hosted the meeting and chaired the summit, has given his assurance that "we can send out a collective message that will highlight the important role played by MSMEs in economic and social development, as they are the backbone of our economy”.
Industry | 10/21/2012

José Manuel Soria took part in the Latin American and North African SMEs Meeting

The Latin American and North African SMEs Meeting, held this morning as part of the 12th Latin American Summit
Industry | 10/21/2012

José Manuel Soria presents the Second Class Order of Isabella the Catholic queen to the Chairman of Renault

This recognition seeks to reward extraordinary behaviour of a civil nature.
Tourism | 10/21/2012

Spain received 6.2 million international tourists in September, an increase of 5.1%

Between January and September, the number of tourists visiting increased by 3.8%, reaching a total of 47 million. The number of Russian tourists visiting rose sharply - by 40% - in the first nine months of the year and for the first time exceeds a million tourists. In September, arrivals went up by 56%.
Industry | 10/18/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism earmarks €98.9 million in subsidies for 132 reindustrialisation projects

Of the 132 projects planned, 63 of them are business initiatives in the provinces of Teruel, Soria and Jaén, which will receive grants worth €34.2 million. The remaining 69 projects are reindustrialisation projects in the Campo de Gibraltar and Bay of Cádiz districts. They will receive a total of €64.7 million in grants. These grants will entail a total of €141.8 million in associated investments in 2012.
Tourism | 10/18/2012

The Government rolls out the ICO line of credit for tourist businesses, for which €266 million has been allocated

The line of credit, which is funded by the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism and managed by the Instituto de Crédito Oficial [Official Credit Institute] (ICO), is encompassed within the Comprehensive National Tourism Plan and aims to bring about the gradual modernisation of tourist infrastructures in Spain. Loans are available to tourist businesses providing accommodation, catering, travel agency services, complementary services, conference organisers, intermediary tourist services, etc.
Energy | 10/15/2012

The Minister for Industry, Energy and Tourism attends the presentation of the book “Conversaciones sobre la Energía” (Conversations on Energy)

According to the Minister, one of the aims of these measures is to have a sustainable energy system with a secure supply, from both an environmental as well as an economic and financial perspective.
Industry | 10/15/2012

El Ministerio de Industria, Energía y Turismo aprueba ayudas a 125 agrupaciones empresariales de innovación por 6,8 millones de euros

Resuelta la convocatoria de ayudas 2012 previstas en el Programa de Apoyo a Agrupaciones Empresariales que gestiona el Ministerio. El apoyo al fortalecimiento y a la actividad de los denominados “clusters” de innovación forma parte de la estrategia europea de mejora de la competitividad a través de la innovación. La edición de este año ha implantado una gestión más integrada del programa incorporando al mismo a las agrupaciones del sector turismo que hasta ahora tenían un tratamiento independiente.
Industry | 10/14/2012

The Minister for Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, has met the Croatian Minister for the Business Sector and SMEs, Gordan Maras, this morning

Minister Maras made a courtesy visit to Minister José Manuel Soria during a visit to Spain.
Industry | 10/10/2012

El Ministerio de Industria, Energía y Turismo respalda las iniciativas de la CE para una reindustrialización europea

El ministro de Industria, Energía y Turismo, José Manuel Soria, muestra su apoyo a la comunicación presentada por el vicepresidente de la Comisión Europea y comisario de Industria y Emprendimiento, Antonio Tajani, “Una industria europea más fuerte para el crecimiento y la recuperación económica”.
The Ministry | 10/9/2012

El ministro de Industria, Energía y Turismo se ha reunido hoy con la ministra de Ecología, de Desarrollo Sostenible y de Energía de Francia, Delphine Batho, en París.

El ministro de Industria, Energía y Turismo se ha reunido hoy con la ministra de Ecología, de Desarrollo Sostenible y de Energía de Francia, Delphine Batho, en el marco de XXII Cumbre Hispano-Francesa que ha tenido lugar hoy en París.
The Ministry | 10/8/2012

The minister for Industry, Energy and Tourism accompanies the Prime Minister in paying tribute to participants in the firefighting campaign

Mariano Rajoy remembered those who died in the course of this campaign, and praised the efforts of the wounded and those affected by wildfires
Branch of industry and tourism | 10/8/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism presents austere budgets which go further to fix the economy

The ministry is reducing its budget by 21.33% to 2.9525 billion euros. The accounts go further than before in the process of fixing the Spanish economy, building a firm base for contributing to economic growth and job creation, as well as meeting deficit targets. Despite the budget efforts already begun in 2012, the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism will continue to further the reforms already underway.
Industry | 10/7/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism is to promote 42 projects with a budget 1.7 million euros to support entrepreneurs and SMEs.

The projects selected will involve 155 Enterprise Support Centres (known as CEAE in Spanish) in 15 Autonomous Regions. The projects, collaborations between three or more bodies, seek to improve and launch new CEAE services aimed at encouraging entrepreneurial initiative and business creation.
Industry | 10/3/2012

Spain's minister for Industry, Energy and Tourism and the German's Vice-chancellor and Minister for Economy and Technology commit to boosting Europe's industry.

They discussed the different action lines currently in place to strengthen the development of Europe's industry.
Information Society and Digital Agenda | 10/3/2012

Agreement to fight cybercrime in Spain, signed by the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism and the Ministry of the Interior.

The agreement strengthens the fight against cybercrime and cyberterrorism, as well as the protection of critical infrastructures. In the fight against cybercrime and cyberterrorism, it will increase the ability to detect, investigate and prosecute cases of information theft, electronic fraud, identity theft, child pornography and child abuse. Action will also focus on maximising the protection of critical infrastructures and providing a more efficient response to the incidents that might affect them.
Industry | 10/1/2012

The minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism visits the Alcola installations in Lugo

He was accompanied by the secretary of state for Energy and the secretary general of Industry.
Energy | 9/27/2012

Electricity bills have been reduced by 2.29% for domestic customers in October, and butane gas cylinders now cost 4.6% less

The Last Resort electricity rate, which affects some 17 million users, will be reduced in the quarterly review set for October. The last resort gas rate does not vary in the October review. The price of butane gas cylinders has gone down to €16.1 per bottle, a reduction of 4.6%.
Tourism | 9/27/2012

International tourists spent 38.863 billion euros from January to August, 6.2% more than in 2011

In August, total tourist spending rose by 5.7%, to 7.704 billion euros. The UK, France, Scandinavia and Russia were the markets contributing most to the increase, which was most notable in the Balearic Islands, Catalonia, Andalusia and the Valencia region.
Industry | 9/26/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism launches the Efficient Vehicle Incentives Programme with a budget of 75 million

The Efficient Vehicle Incentives Programme (PIVE) aims to replace 75,000 vehicles, cars and light vans and promote the purchase of vehicles with lower fuel consumption. The beneficiaries (private individuals, professionals, the self-employed, microbusinesses and SMEs) will obtain the subsidies directly when paying the invoice in the dealership, for an amount of 2,000 euros, of which 1,000 is provided by the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism and the other 1,000 by the manufacturer or importer. The Programme will permit cars older than 12 years and light vans older than 10 years to be scrapped and replaced by high-efficiency models, with lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions. IDAE estimates that the energy savings associated with this initiative will be around 26.1 million litres of fuel a year, equivalent to 166,000 barrels of oil, and a saving of 16 million euros/year. To this may be added a reduction in greenhouse gases of 54,000 tonnes of CO2/year.
The programme begins on 1 October 2012 and will continue until 31 March 2013 or until the budget has been allocated.
Tourism | 9/26/2012

Spain, host country of World Tourism Day

The day was inaugurated by their Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Asturias, accompanied by the Minister for Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, and the secretary general of the World Tourism Organisation, Taleb Rifai. Mr Soria highlighted sustainability in tourism as a transversal tool which should be applied both to destinations and to tourism resources, and revealed that this year's forecast is for an improvement in the figures for tourist arrivals and revenue.
Information Society and Digital Agenda | 9/24/2012

El Ministerio de Industria, Energía y Turismo concede 233,6 millones a 262 proyectos TIC innovadores

Se resuelve la convocatoria del Subprograma de Competitividad I+D de la convocatoria de ayudas 2012 de la Acción Estratégica de Telecomunicaciones y Sociedad de la Información. Los proyectos recibirán 48 millones de euros en subvenciones y 185,6 millones de euros en préstamos. Se han destacado los proyectos dirigidos a impulsar las líneas de actuación destacadas en la Agenda Digital Europea: incrementar la competitividad de la PYME, impulsar las Smart Cities y la administración electrónica, favorecer la creación de contenidos y servicios interoperables y sin fronteras y potenciar la creación de servicios en un entorno de movilidad.
Tourism | 9/20/2012

Almost 8 million international tourists visited Spain in August, an increase of 5%

40.7 million tourists came during the first nine months of the year, a year-on-year increase of 3.6%
Industry | 9/18/2012

El ministro de Industria, Energía y Turismo inaugura dos fábricas del Grupo Mondragón y visita la tecnológica china Huawei

José Manuel Soria ha inaugurado la planta de componentes de Fagor Ederlan y la de Cikautxo y ha visitado las instalaciones de la multinacional Huawei, con la que ha acordado constituir un grupo de trabajo que evalúe las posibilidades de establecer un centro de I+D en España. El ministro ha mantenido un encuentro con empresarios españoles organizado por la Cámara de Comercio española en China, en el que ha resaltado la importancia de la internacionalización y las oportunidades de negocio del país asiático. La jornada anterior, el ministro visitó en Pekín el simulador de helicópteros de Indra para Eurocopter, que marca un hito en el sector aeronáutico chino, al inscribirse dentro del proceso de liberalización de su espacio aéreo.
Industry | 9/17/2012

José Manuel Soria meets with the Chinese Deputy Minister for Industry and IT and the energy agency NEA

During his meeting with the Chinese Deputy Minister, José Manuel Soria proposed a revitalisation of the agreements between both Ministries concerning SMEs, Industry and ITC, so that they become a means of improving bilateral business relations. The minister requested that the Chinese authorities, assisted by the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, hold a series of talks with these automobile and component manufacturers. The Twelfth Five-Year Chinese Development Plan presents some opportunities in the energy field as well, which the Minister dealt with on Monday in a meeting with the Chinese NEA.
Tourism | 9/17/2012

El ministro de Industria, Energía y Turismo promociona España ante autoridades y turoperadores chinos

José Manuel Soria presenta a la vicepresidenta de la Chinese National Tourism Administration (CNTA), Du Yili, el atractivo de España como destino turístico para el mercado chino. Desde el pasado mes de abril se han externalizado los servicios de apoyo a los consulados de Pekín, Shangai y Cantón, lo que permitirá agilizar la concesión de visados. Entre los objetivos del Gobierno español destaca la creación de nuevas rutas aéreas entre España y China para intensificar los intercambios turísticos y comerciales. La economía china crecerá en 2012 entre el 8% y el 9%, lo que favorecerá que los chinos viajen más al extranjero. De mantenerse esta tendencia en 2012, España podría recibir 150.000 turistas chinos.
Tourism | 9/14/2012

The minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism begins an official visit to China on Monday

José Manuel Soria will travel to China to attract tourism and Chinese investment in Spain and to support the internationalisation of Spanish companies in this Asian country. Minister Soria will hold meetings in Beijing and Shanghai with Chinese authorities, local tour operators and Spanish companies operating in the country. China is an increasingly important market for Spanish tourism, exports and investment. Currently, around 600 Spanish businesses are established in China.
Energy | 9/13/2012

The Government approves a Draft Bill to halt the energy rate deficit

The bill, which will be sent to Parliament, includes a homogeneous tax of 6% for revenues from electricity generation. It also includes taxes on the production and storage of nuclear waste, a levy on hydroelectric power generation and a "green cent" on natural gas for the consumption and generation of electrical power, and on coal, fuel oil and gas oil for electricity generation.
Energy | 9/9/2012

El subsecretario del Ministerio de Industria, Energía y Turismo, recibe al alcalde de Alburquerque

Enrique Hernández Bento se ha interesado por el estado de salud del alcalde Angel Vadillo y le ha explicado las actuaciones del Ministerio de Industria, Energía y Turismo para solucionar el problema del déficit de tarifa energético en España. El subsecretario, que estuvo acompañado por el secretario de Ordenación del Territorio y Sostenibilidad del PSOE, Hugo Alfonso Morán Fernández, han animado al alcalde a que presente sus planteamientos a través de la línea de comunicación abierta con todos los agentes en el marco de la reforma energética.
Energy | 9/9/2012

El Ministerio de Industria, Energía y Turismo promueve la presentación de El Hierro como referente energético mundial en la cumbre de Malta

El Ministerio de Industria, Energía y Turismo, ha promovido la participación de la Isla de El Hierro en la reciente cumbre energética de islas organizada por la Agencia Internacional de Energías Renovables (IRENA) los días 6 y 7 de septiembre. En dicha cumbre la delegación española presidida por el Ministerio y de la que formaban parte el Cabildo y la sociedad Gorona del Viento, ha presentado el proyecto de autosuficiencia energética de la isla con la puesta en marcha de la central hidroeólica que suministrará energía eléctrica tanto para el consumo local como para la desalinización del agua. La presentación ha tenido una gran acogida estando prevista la visita del Director General de IRENA a El Hierro en próximas fechas.
Tourism | 8/27/2012

International tourists spent 13.159 billion euros from January to July, 6.4% more than in 2011

In July, tourist spending was up 8.9%, to 7.515 billion euros. Average expenditure per tourist was up by 4.3%, and average daily expenditure grew by 3.6% in July. The UK, Scandinavia, the USA and Russia were the markets contributing most to the increase, which had the greatest effect in Catalonia, the Valencia region and Andalusia.
Tourism | 8/21/2012

July 2012 Inbound Tourism Survey (FRONTUR)

From January to July 33 million tourists came into Spain, a year on year variation of 3.3%. The main source markets for tourism in July were Germany, with a 9.7% increase, and France, up by 7.7%.
Industry | 8/5/2012

Statement from Minister José Manuel Soria on the fires affecting La Palma and La Gomera

Minister JM Soria, accompanied by the Government Delegate for the Canary Islands, Mª del Carmen Hernández Bento, visits the places affected by the fires on the island of La Gomera.
Industry | 8/2/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism to allocate 96 million euros to finance SMEs, technology companies and young entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs will be able to apply for credit on the strength of their own business plans without needing to provide additional guarantees.
Energy | 7/31/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism asks for proposals in writing from coal trade unions and companies to accelerate the dialogue process

The Secretary of State for Energy, Fernando Marti, has asked the members of the Monitoring Commission of the Coal Plan to send concrete proposals in writing to help reach future agreements.
Energy | 7/30/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism convenes the Monitoring Commission for the Coal Plan for tomorrow

A meeting was held this morning between the Heads of the Institute for Restructuring Coal Mining, the trade unions representing the coal workers (Organizaciones Sindicales Comisiones Obreras, FITAG-UGT, Unión Sindical Obrera) and the Coal Sector Employers organisation, Carbunión.
Tourism | 7/30/2012

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, signs an agreement with the President of the Royal Academy of Gastronomy

Collaboration will take the form of projects for the promotion of tourism and gastronomy in Spain and abroad.
Tourism | 7/29/2012

International tourists spent 23.644 billion euros in the first half of the year, an increase of 5.6%

In June, tourist spending was 8.7% higher, totalling 5.833 billion euros. Both the average spend per tourist and the daily average spend increased in June and in the first half of the year. Almost all of this growth came from the United Kingdom, the United States and Russia and the main beneficiaries were Catalonia and the islands.
Tourism | 7/26/2012

The Government approves financing of 266 million euros for tourist companies

The loan will be available to tourist businesses providing accommodation, catering, travel agency services, complementary services, conference organisation, intermediary tourist services, etc.
Information Society and Digital Agenda | 7/24/2012

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, puts Spain's Digital Agenda out to public consultation

The public will be able to participate in drawing up the definitive text of the Agenda by posting their opinions and suggestions on the website www.agendadigital.gob.es by 30 September.
Tourism | 7/22/2012

Spain received 6 million international tourists in June, an increase of 4.7%

In the first six months of this year, tourist arrivals reached 25.1 million, a year-on-year increase of 2.9%. The main source markets during the first six months were the United Kingdom, Germany and France.
Industry | 7/19/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism approves 375 industrial plans that will trigger investments of 2,380 million euros to 2013

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism has selected the industrial plans that it will support with 381 million euros in 2012, as part of the programme promoting competitiveness in strategic industrial sectors. The automotive sector will receive 220 million euros to finance 97 industrial plans, representing an associated investment of 1,230 million euros in the next two years. A total of 161 million euros will be mobilised for 278 actions in other manufacturing industries, excluding the aerospace sector, that will result in an associated investment of 1,156 million euros in the period 2012-2013.
Tourism | 7/18/2012

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, meets leading Russian tour operators

Russian tourists spend 50% more in Spain than the average for tourists from all source markets.
The Ministry | 7/17/2012

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, accompanies King Juan Carlos on his official visit to Russia

The working visit will last two days and a delegation of Spanish business owners from a range of sectors will also be taking part
Industry | 7/17/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism to support 58 actions in Lorca and El Hierro with the creation of 101 direct jobs

The special calls for tender for reindustrialisation for El Hierro and Lorca have been decided. They will support actions with a total of €17.3 million. The projects imply an associated total investment of €26 million. Said special programmes provide incentives for actions with subsidies and with 15-year interest-free loans (5 years grace period and 10 years for repayment).
The Ministry | 7/15/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism starts a study of key aspects of the new plan for coal 2013-2018

The new Plan for Coal will retain the commitments of earlier plans, particularly in socially sensitive areas such as early retirement. The plan will be novel, capable of overcoming the inertia inherent in earlier plans, with the sole aim of ensuring a future for mining districts.
Tourism | 7/11/2012

José Manuel Soria attends the opening of the Parador in Lorca with HRH Queen Sofía

The parador, located in the castle of this town in Murcia, has 76 double rooms, a conference room, spa, indoor and outdoor pool, car park and gardens.
Energy | 7/3/2012

Jose Manuel Soria presents the Temporary Centralised Storage Facility (ATC)

The project will entail an investment of more than 900 million euros.
Tourism | 7/3/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism signs an agreement with RENFE for the international promotion of AVE high speed rail cities.

It was signed by the Secretary of State for Tourism in Seville, in the presence of the Development Minister, Ana Pastor. The “Renfe Spain Pass” has been created to enable international tourists to purchase a flat rate ticket, valid for a number of days, for travel to various cities.
Industry | 7/2/2012

José Manuel Soria attends the Fundación Iberdrola [Iberdrola Foundation] grant giving ceremony with the Prince and Princess

Fifteen students have been selected in this second edition.
Energy | 7/1/2012

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism reiterates the Government's readiness to negotiate the 2013-2018 plan for the coal industry

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, met today with coal mining sector representatives from the UGT and CCOO unions to convey to them the Government's readiness to negotiate the new plan for the coal industry. In the meeting, Mr. Soria reminded those present of the budgetary efforts required in 2012, that affect the whole of Spanish society, in order to meet the public deficit targets. José Manuel Soria called on the unions to start negotiations for the 2013-2018 plan as soon as possible, because without a plan the EU would block the transfer of public subsidies to the sector.
Tourism | 6/27/2012

El gasto de los turistas internacionales aumentó un 7,5% en mayo, alcanzando los 4.804 millones de euros

En los primeros cinco meses del año, el gasto medio diario ha crecido un 11,1%. Alemania destacó entre los principales mercados por el incremento del 15,6% en el gasto total. Los mayores incrementos correspondieron a la Comunidad de Madrid, un 29,5%, a la Comunidad Valenciana, un 14,2%, y a Cataluña, con un 11,7%.
The Ministry | 6/25/2012

José Manuel Soria attends the investiture of the new governor of the Banco de España [Bank of Spain]

Linde defended the Bank of Spain, claiming that it is a strong institution.
Industry | 6/24/2012

The Minister for Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, mentioned “the government's commitment to companies like Airbus, which are still reaching impressive industrial goals, creating jobs and wealth”

The Minister for Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, affirmed that the government's priorities include "reindustrialising" the economy, because a country with a strong industrial base can respond better to challenging times.
Information Society and Digital Agenda | 6/21/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism receives the Expert Group's recommendations on the Spanish Digital Agenda

The report highlights the importance of ICT for the economic recovery. The experts warn of the risk of Spain not harnessing the potential of the new digital technologies. They recommend encouraging the public to participate in drawing up the Digital Agenda.
Tourism | 6/21/2012

The government approves the 2012-2016 National Integrated Tourism Plan

The plan, presented by the minister for Industry, Energy and Tourism, is a government tool for defining the main guidelines for improving the competitiveness of the tourism industry as a driver of the Spanish economy and renewing Spain's world leadership in tourism matters. With a pragmatic approach, this route map consists of 6 axes, 28 measures and 104 actions, based on contributions from all public and private agents, with an estimated budget of 1.6 to 1.8 billion euros for the period. These measures include intensifying the Spain brand and creating loyalty among our visitors, stimulating national demand, optimising visa policies, renewing mature destinations, lines of credit for renewing infrastructure, and standardising accommodation categories. Current legislation will also be changed to make the tourism industry more flexible, and Turespaña will be opened to private capital in decision-making and funding.
Tourism | 6/21/2012

The number of tourists visiting was up by 5.8% in May to 5.4 million, the highest monthly figure in the last three years

The number of visitors from Germany rose most in the month: by 17.6%, with 888,217 tourists There was also a 15.2% rise in the number of tourists from Switzerland; the numbers from Nordic Countries were up by 11.5% and by 10% from the United States.
Trade | 6/19/2012

José Manuel Soria accompanies Prince Felipe at the opening of the 7th Spain-Morocco Cooperation Forum

In the presence of the president of the Moroccan government, Abdelilah Benkirane, and numerous members of the Moroccan business community, the Prince emphasised the "experience" and "capacity" of Spanish businesses.
Energy | 6/17/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism promotes international support for El Hierro as an example of energy sustainability.

The Under-secretary of the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism presided over the main Spanish event held during European Sustainable Energy Week, at which the Island of El Hierro was presented as a European and global benchmark for energy sustainability and self-sufficiency. The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism, José Manuel Soria, the European Energy Commissioner, Günther Oettinger, and the General Director of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Adnan Z. Amin, employed video screenings to highlight the importance of the initiative in El Hierro. The three are set to visit the island in the near future.
Industry | 6/17/2012

The Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism signs tourism and renewable energy agreements with El Hierro

A delegation from the Ministry, headed by the Deputy Secretary of Industry, Energy and Tourism, Enrique Hernández Bento, has met with the Island Council of El Hierro and the town councils of Valverde, La Frontera and El Pinar to assess the progress of the Special Measures Programme for El Hierro (PAE/El Hierro) 2012. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Ministry of Industry, Energy and Tourism signed two new agreements with the authorities of El Hierro. Through the IDAE (Institute for the Diversification and Saving of Energy), it will help to identify, design and implement new energy saving and energy efficiency measures on the Island of El Hierro, and to develop renewable sources of energy. It will also support the promotion of tourism with a specific campaign for the Bajada de la Virgen de los Reyes festival.
Trade | 6/14/2012

The Minister of Industry, Energy and Tourism travels to Morocco to promote economic relations between the two countries

A number of meetings have been scheduled with Moroccan ministers to discuss issues relating to tourism, industry and energy. Minister Soria will attend the opening of the 7th Spain-Morocco Investment and Business Cooperation Forum.
Information Society and Digital Agenda | 6/12/2012

In 2010, broadcasting companies allocated 161 million euros to fund European audiovisual work

133 million euros went to fund Spanish audiovisual productions, according to the General Report of the Interministerial Monitoring Committee, formed by the Ministries of Industry, Energy and Tourism, of Education, Culture and Sport, and of the Presidency. In the twelve years since the regulation was enforced, national broadcasting companies have invested a total of 1.537 billion euros in audiovisual works.
Tourism | 6/11/2012

José Manuel Soria accompanies Prince Felipe to the inauguration of the WTO Executive Council

The minister made reference to Spain's good tourism figures for 2011.

Ministry News for 2012

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