Exports from the province of Castellón showed remarkable resilience in April, achieving a significant 14% growth. This dynamism was mainly driven by the fuel and machinery sectors. Meanwhile, the tile sector saw a 2.6% reduction in its foreign sales, a decline less severe than anticipated, despite a 25% decrease in sales to the United States during the first quarter, its primary projected market for 2025. This situation was offset by the recovery of significant European markets such as Germany, the United Kingdom, Greece, Portugal, and Belgium.
According to the balance from the Institute of Foreign Trade (Icex), Castellón companies exported goods worth 859.6 billion euros in April. Fuel transit surged by 98%, accounting for 34% of the total exports, second only to ceramic products (34%). Machinery exports also stood out with a 70% increase, and chemical products with a 79.5% rise.
The growth in oil-related operations was favored by tensions in the Persian Gulf, which boosted the activity of the refinery in the capital of La Plana. Other products showing increases included automobiles, metal manufactures, and legumes and vegetables. By country, France led the growth in Castellón's exports with a 38% increase, followed by Italy and Germany, with rises of 25% and 19% respectively. Furthermore, Castellón companies reactivated sales in the United States during April, with a 15% increase.
The tile sector experienced a 2.6% decline in April, falling from 311.5 million euros to 303.2 million. In the accumulated first quarter, the decrease reached 8%, with sales reducing from 1.19 billion euros to 1.12 billion euros. The main issue was recorded in the United States, where exports plummeted by 25% from January to April 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. France saw a slight drop but regained its position as the primary destination for Tile of Spain.
Despite international uncertainty, the figures show positive signs in the recovery of key markets. The United Kingdom solidifies its position as the third-largest destination for Spanish tiles, increasing its purchases. Sales also improved in Portugal, Germany, Greece, and Belgium. Conversely, exports declined in Morocco and Israel due to the impact of the Middle East conflict. Meanwhile, Italy maintained its results practically stable.
