Alicante’s Economic Defense Takes Center Stage
In a move to address perceived budget shortfalls and insufficient investment, the executive board and the Alicante State Labor Union (Uepal) announced a planned series of discussions with deputies and senators across the province. The aim is to reassess and modify the state budget to better reflect the needs of Alicante, highlighting the perception of outdated pre-draft allocations and the impact on local manufacturers, communities, and the broader economy through 2023 and beyond.
The leadership seeks a direct meeting with the head of the Generalitat Valenciana, Ximo Puig, to push for decisive action against what they describe as insufficient public funding from the national government. The request centers on delivering a strong response to changes that have affected investments in Alicante and to secure a balanced commitment to the province in future Generalitat budgets.
The plan was disclosed on Monday by Juan Jose Selles, who spoke on behalf of Uepal after a gathering convened by its governing bodies. The participants also aligned with a parallel session organized by the regional employers, including the CEV, the Chamber of Commerce, and Ineca, which mirrors concerns about the implications of next year’s public accounts for the province. During a subsequent statement, Uepal noted a tension with CEV Alicante but affirmed its intention to participate in a broader set of actions in defense of the province, incorporating goals advanced by CEV Alicante and other groups when legitimate interests are at stake.
Uepal emphasizes that state defense is essential, affecting all stakeholders and aiming to prevent the province’s impoverishment. It warns that insufficient public investment could drive professional talent away and spur companies to relocate to other regions with more robust public funding, thereby stifling local economic activity and business development.
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Image of the board held by Uepal this Monday.
Associations within Uepal stress a proactive role in voicing the needs of the land, insisting that Alicante’s progress cannot be achieved without the active participation of entrepreneurs and civil society. Juan José Sellés, speaking on behalf of the alliance, underscored that progress requires concerted effort from local business leaders and community stakeholders who are prepared to advocate for their region.
Worst budgets in history for Alicante
From this viewpoint, the group argues that Alicante sits within the state’s stated priorities only in theory, while investment continues to concentrate elsewhere without countermeasures. Rather than accepting stagnation, the coalition pledges to exercise its right to defend local interests, protect commercially valuable activities, and sustain economic growth for the province.
Uepal asserts the importance of clarifying several key areas: railway infrastructure, enhanced connections between major tourist centers, and improved water supply for agriculture to support both human needs and productivity. Addressing these gaps is seen as critical to stimulating sectors and retaining companies in the province. A central element of their current plan is to advocate for a dedicated State Department of Artificial Intelligence Supervision to serve Alicante, along with the establishment of the Spanish Space Agency in Elche.