Last week, we held a new edition of the Madrid Investment Forum in Toronto, an initiative that took on special significance as it coincided with the European Union’s visit to Canada, attended by Ursula von der Leyen. This was a key moment for strengthening economic and trade ties between Europe and Canada.
The Madrid Region is keen to play an active role in this strategic relationship, consolidating its position as the leading gateway for Canadian companies looking to expand into Europe.
The figures speak for themselves:
- Canada ranks as the 12th-largest investor in Spain and the 10th-largest in the Madrid Region.
- Canadian investment stock in Spain stands at €13,570.42 million, of which €10,923.19 million (80.5%) is concentrated in the Madrid Region, highlighting its position as the leading destination for Canadian investment in Spain.
- In terms of employment, Canadian-owned companies generate 29,377 jobs in Spain, of which 7,546 (25.7%) are located in the Madrid Region.
During the forum, we showcased the competitive advantages that make our region one of the most attractive destinations for international investment. Particularly noteworthy were the contributions from Randy Boissonnault, former Minister of the Government of Canada, and the participating institutional representatives, who highlighted the strength of relations between Canada and Spain, as well as the considerable potential for further investment and collaboration opportunities between the two markets.
One of the day’s most inspiring moments was the opportunity to learn first-hand about the success story of OpenText, a Canadian company with more than two decades of presence in Madrid. Its experience, backed by an investment of more than €11 million and a track record of sustained growth from our region, demonstrates how Madrid offers a stable, competitive business environment and access to top talent for developing projects with a global reach.
We would particularly like to thank DLA Piper for hosting us at its offices in Toronto, and CaixaBank for joining us in presenting the services and tools that facilitate the establishment and growth of Canadian companies in Spain.
At a time when Europe and Canada are strengthening their economic and strategic ties, Invest in Madrid continues to work to bring opportunities closer, build valuable connections and support international companies choosing Madrid as their investment destination throughout their establishment process, helping ensure that Madrid remains one of Europe’s leading hubs for investment, innovation and talent.