According to a recent study by Funcas, nearly half of the economic growth of Spain in the past three years is attributed to foreign workers. From 2022 to 2025, Spain's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to rise by 8.9%, with 4.2 percentage points of this growth directly resulting from the inclusion of immigrants into the labor market. The findings suggest that immigration plays a significant role in driving economic expansion in a nation facing demographic challenges, as the working-age population diminishes each year due to emigration or lower birth rates.

The report emphasizes the impact of immigration not only on economic growth but also in mitigating price increases in key sectors such as tourism and construction. This role is crucial, particularly in times of economic recovery, as the influx of foreign labor helps to stabilize the workforce and supports sectors that are vital to Spain's economy. Furthermore, the findings challenge traditional views of economic growth that rely heavily on productivity gains, indicating a shift towards a model supported by an increasing labor force.

As Spain continues to grapple with demographic decline, the study advocates for more inclusive immigration policies that can harness the economic potential of foreign workers. The current economic cycle is characterized by a growing dependency on population growth rather than productivity improvements, pointing to a need for strategic planning to ensure sustained economic health and address the challenges posed by an aging native population.