Baracaldo’s economy has evolved from its industrial roots, with major shifts toward the service sector and commerce in recent decades. While steel and shipbuilding were once the backbone of the local economy, today, the city is known for its vibrant retail and events industry. The Bilbao Exhibition Centre (BEC) is one of the key drivers of the economy, attracting international exhibitions, trade shows, and events that bring in visitors from across Europe.
The city also has a burgeoning tech and innovation sector, supported by its proximity to Bilbao and the Greater Bilbao industrial zone. Additionally, local businesses thrive in the areas of construction, logistics, and food services. There are still traces of the traditional crafts and manufacturing that defined the city’s past, with small workshops producing artisanal goods.
Baracaldo also benefits from the growing tourism industry in the Basque Country, offering an attractive alternative to the hustle and bustle of Bilbao. The city’s central location within Biscay makes it a strategic spot for both business and leisure, with many industries contributing to its overall growth and appeal.