Key facts
- Spain's registered unemployment fell to 2,291,982 in June.
- This is the lowest figure recorded since January 2008.
- Social Security membership reached a record high of 22.47 million contributors.
- The services sector saw the largest decrease in unemployment, driven by the tourism season.
- Youth unemployment reached its lowest historical level.
- Female unemployment fell below 1.4 million for the first time since August 2008.
Unemployment in Spain has fallen to its lowest level since January 2008, with 2,291,982 people registered as jobless in June. This marks a significant decrease of 28,739 from May and reflects a trend observed over recent months. The gains were primarily driven by the services sector, which saw a reduction of 28,498 unemployed individuals, largely due to the commencement of the tourist season. Other sectors like industry, construction, and agriculture also contributed to the decline.
However, the number of individuals seeking their first job or re-entering the labor market after a break increased by 4,298, indicating challenges for these groups. Youth unemployment continued its downward trajectory, reaching a historic low of 159,800. Female unemployment also saw a substantial drop, falling below 1.4 million for the first time since August 2008, with 1.39 million women currently out of work compared to 903,673 men.
Social Security registrations hit a new record, with an average of 128,533 new contributors added in June, bringing the total to 22.47 million. The wholesale and retail trade sector led monthly job creation with 39,325 new registrations, followed by hospitality. Over the past year, Spain has accounted for 54.5% of all jobs created within the European Union.