We analyse the conclusions of the Fenin conference on healthcare technology manufacturers in Spain. This strategic sector drives innovation, skilled employment and industrial development, but it requires institutional support, regulatory improvements and a firm commitment to domestic manufacturing to ensure its future competitiveness and sustainability.
A crucial day for the future of healthcare technology in Spain
We attended the presentation of the report on healthcare technology manufacturers in Spain, organised by Fenin, at a particularly significant time for the sector. In an environment marked by geopolitical uncertainty and industrial transformation, it has become clear that healthcare technology is a strategic sector, not only because of its impact on health, but also because of its contribution to economic development. As manufacturers, we share this vision: the healthcare industry must establish itself as a pillar of strategic autonomy and the national productive fabric.
The importance of the medical device manufacturing sector to the Spanish economy
The data presented clearly illustrates the importance of the sector:
- 362 manufacturing companies in Spain, 93% of which are SMEs
- Annual turnover of over €4.9 billion
- €344 million invested in R&D&I
- Around 19,000 direct jobs, 96% of which are permanent
- €1.677 billion in gross value added (GVA)
Furthermore, the sector stands out for its ability to create skilled, stable and highly specialised jobs, with investment per employee exceeding the national average.
In our experience, these figures reflect a reality we encounter on a daily basis: technological innovation is directly linked to improvements in clinical practice and the efficiency of the healthcare system.
- A strategic sector with challenges that we must address. The event also provided an opportunity to examine the main challenges affecting the sector’s growth.
- A complex regulatory environment. Over-regulation and red tape limit companies’ ability to grow, particularly in a highly innovative sector.
- Business profitability and sustainability. Some 29% of manufacturing companies are reporting losses, a situation that particularly affects SMEs and micro-enterprises.
- The need for value-based purchasing models. The importance of moving towards public procurement systems that prioritise quality, innovation and efficiency, rather than just price, has been highlighted.
Roundtable discussion – Fenin Estudio event: “HEALTHCARE TECHNOLOGY MANUFACTURERS IN SPAIN”
Boosting domestic manufacturing and strategic autonomy
One of the key messages of the conference was the need to strengthen Spain’s production capacity. In this regard, Oscar M. Jordan, our manager at Hersill, emphasised the importance of creating an environment that fosters competitiveness, innovation and local production. The current situation calls for a shift towards a model that enables:
- Strengthening the domestic industry
- Reducing dependence on foreign sources
- Improving crisis response capabilities
All of this is in line with European strategies for open strategic autonomy.
Innovation and internationalisation: key factors in the sector’s positioning
The report also highlights the sector’s strong international focus, with growing exports and widespread recognition of Spanish healthcare technology in global markets. However, this reality is accompanied by a paradox: companies find it harder to compete in the domestic market than in the international one. This reinforces the need to promote policies that foster domestic competitiveness and the consolidation of the sector in Spain.
An opportunity to strengthen the healthcare sector
We are at a turning point. Healthcare technology in Spain is already a driving force behind innovation, employment and industrial development. The challenge now is to consolidate this growth by creating an environment that encourages investment, reduces barriers and boosts domestic manufacturing. At Hersill, we continue to work on developing technological solutions that meet the real needs of healthcare professionals and contribute to a more efficient, safe and sustainable healthcare system.
Find out more about our solutions and contact our sales team for further information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is the healthcare technology sector in Spain considered strategic? Because it combines innovation, health outcomes and economic development, and is key to the sustainability of the healthcare system and the domestic industry.
What challenges do manufacturers in Spain face? Primarily regulation, business profitability, market access and the need for institutional support to grow.
What role does innovation play in this sector? It is essential for improving the quality of care, optimising clinical processes and developing advanced technological solutions.
