In Spain, a staggering 6.9 million out of nearly 10 million planned housing projects are currently stalled, as detailed in a report from the University of the Hesperides. Despite a 40% increase in housing prices since 2020, the construction sector has not kept up with these rising costs, leading to a significant backlog in housing development. This paradox highlights the struggles within the property sector, where administrative inefficiencies and a reliance on private promotion continue to hinder progress.

The report emphasizes that while public investment in housing has reached its highest level in 16 years, it is primarily private developers who drive the housing figures. Interviewed expert Xavier Vilajoana from APCEspaña pointed out that the sector requires enhanced administrative agility, which is often lacking in public institutions. This raises questions about the effectiveness of policy and resource allocation in dealing with the current housing crisis.

The stark reality is that, despite the economic theory suggesting that rising prices would lead to increased construction activity, the Spanish housing market is trapped in a cycle of inefficiency and resource mismanagement. The ongoing issue of construction delays and project stagnation presents significant social implications, as a large segment of the population is left without adequate housing, calling for urgent reforms in housing policies and administrativos processes.