The Return of a Key Company
One piece of news that stands out in the Catalan economic landscape is the relocation of the headquarters of Ciments Molins back to Catalonia. This company, which had packed its bags for Madrid during the most turbulent moments of the independence debate, is now returning home. Although production and management never left the territory, the relocation of the headquarters marks a significant moment that could help improve the business image of Catalonia.
Political and Economic Implications
The return of Ciments Molins is not only a triumph for the Generalitat, but also benefits the Spanish government. This relocation reinforces the idea that the initiatives of President Pedro Sánchez and the proposals of Salvador Illa are having a positive effect. However, the pro-independence parties see this situation with ambivalence: on the one hand, it is a sign of stability, but on the other, it highlights the lack of political viability of the pro-independence movement.
Alarming Data on Productivity
In contrast to this positive news, two alarming trends emerge, revealing a worrying situation in Catalonia. A recent report by the General Council of Economists has indicated that during the period 2013-2022, Spanish productivity has grown by only 0.4% annually, a figure that contrasts with the average of the European Union. Catalonia, although presenting a productivity higher than the Spanish average, continues to be below the European figures.
Productivity Comparison
With a productivity of 55,732 euros per worker, Catalonia is far from the 62,246 euros of the Basque Country, which leads the ranking. This gap is worrying at a time when global economies are competing intensely.
Educational Outcomes: A Worrying Reality
At the same time, the educational results of Catalonia are also a cause for concern. The international TIMSS tests have shown that Spanish students, including those from Catalonia, are among those who obtain the lowest scores. In mathematics, Catalonia is in a low position with 489 points, surpassed only by the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands.
Comparison with Other Communities
Autonomous communities such as Castile and León and Asturias obtain scores that exceed the European average, while Catalonia lags behind, which generates concerns about the educational and employment future of the region.
The Impact of Immigration on Education
A factor that aggravates this situation is the influence of immigration on academic performance. Native students show a clear superiority in scores compared to immigrant students, with a difference of up to 30 points in the case of Catalonia. This highlights the need for an educational system that can adequately integrate all students, regardless of their origin.
A Necessary Reflection
The duality between the return of a large company and poor educational results forces us to reflect on the future of Catalonia. The current situation requires not only a focus on attracting investment, but also a deep review of the education system to ensure that the country’s human capital can compete in an increasingly demanding global market.
