Spain's Audiovisual Sector to Hit €5.68 Billion
Production spend in Spain is expected to surge 45% by 2025, driven by streaming and local film, as content investment in Asia reaches $15.1 billion
Spain's audiovisual sector is expected to reach €5.68 billion in production spend in 2025, a 45% increase from 2022. This growth is driven by the rising demand for streaming and local film, with the sector expected to generate €4.98 billion in gross value added (GVA) for the Spanish economy in 2025.
The Basque Country, in particular, is becoming an attractive destination for film and television production, with audiovisual employment in Bizkaia rising 50.5% between 2014 and 2024. The number of companies linked to the audiovisual sector in Bizkaia also climbed from 284 to 448 during the same period.
The Bilbao Bizkaia Film Commission supported 219 shoots in 2025, with an estimated economic impact of €138.1 million. This growth is not limited to Spain, as content investment in seven major Asian markets is expected to rise to $15.1 billion in 2026. Streaming and local film account for nearly all new spending, as television budgets decline in Asia.
Korea and India are leading the way in content investment, making up roughly 80% of the total investment in seven major Asian markets in 2025. India's online video claimed 46% of the country's content investment in 2025, edging past TV at 42%. This shift towards streaming and local film is expected to continue, with premium VOD engagement growing across India, Korea, and Southeast Asia.
## What's driving the growth? The growth in Spain's audiovisual sector is driven by the increasing demand for streaming and local film. The sector's economic footprint is also expanding, supporting a wider ecosystem of businesses and workers. The study by Olsberg SPI highlights the broader benefits of the audiovisual sector, including screen tourism, cultural visibility, technical innovation, and sustainability.
## Why it matters The growth in Spain's audiovisual sector and content investment in Asia has significant implications for the global entertainment industry. As streaming and local film continue to drive growth, traditional television budgets are declining. This shift is expected to have a major impact on the way content is produced, distributed, and consumed. The companies that adapt to this change and spend wisely will be the ones that thrive in the future.
The audiovisual sector's growth is also expected to have a positive impact on the Spanish economy, generating significant revenue and creating jobs. The sector's expanding economic footprint will also support a wider ecosystem of businesses and workers, contributing to the country's overall economic growth.
