The International Monetary Fund has raised its growth forecast for the Spanish economy in 2026 to 2.3%, one point above the 1.3% growth estimated for the eurozone. The growth rate for the eurozone indicates the existence of unresolved structural problems, according to the update of the IMF’s macroeconomic projections. The growth forecast for Germany has increased to 1.1%; in France, it has risen to 1%; while in Italy, it has been reduced to 0.7%. The effects of increased military spending are expected to become evident in the coming years, as there is a commitment to progress towards the targets set within the framework of NATO by 2035. The consequences of rising energy prices due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine will continue to affect the manufacturing sector, and the appreciation of the euro compared to the currencies of nations that export similar products will decrease the competitiveness of European sales.
The IMF raises the growth forecast for Spain in 2026 by three tenths, to 2.3%.