Evaluations of state investments in Alicante have long needed vigilance. With signs pointing to continued budget pressures, officials suggest a cautious approach that balances essential services with responsible fiscal management. Ruth Merino, the Minister of Finance, Economy and Public Administration, indicated that the province could receive compensation from the Generalitat if it again lands near the bottom in the 2024 General Budgets. A spokesperson from the Consell stressed that core services would remain intact and regional budgets would be optimized for efficiency.
Alicante has historically been left behind in General Budgets year after year, placing last among national regions with investments just over 160 million euros. This record downturn marked a historic low and significantly lagged population needs. The situation sparked a political stir and mobilization from business leaders, unions, and civil society, which prompted a modest shift in investment dynamics but stopped short of a full overhaul.
Following Tuesday’s plenary session, the key question centered on what steps would be taken if the national Budget again underfunded Alicante next year. Merino outlined a strategy of compensation to counterbalance perceived neglect. The regional government hopes the issue can be resolved without repeating past mistakes, yet it promises to scrutinize all possibilities if the shortfall persists. It is noted that the impact is not isolated to Alicante; other regions also feel the effects of limited national investments.
In this context, several priorities were highlighted by the Community Management office: the expansion of the Port of Valencia, continued support for the ceramic industry, and crucial water resources to safeguard the southern Alicante agricultural sector. The recurring assessment is that the national government has repeatedly overlooked the Community’s needs.
PP proposes hundred changes to fix General Budgets’ woes with Alicante
Given the broader political climate, the timing remains uncertain for national leadership, including whether Pedro Sánchez will seek reelection or call new elections. The prospect of an extension to current terms grows as time passes.
Meanwhile, the Consell’s approach includes a compensation framework designed to sustain Alicante, continuing a strategy previously pursued under Botànic. The plan initially cited investments of 610 million euros through the 2023 Generalitat Budget, arguing this amount represented a substantial share of regional investment relative to population size.
Puig thinks that the share allocated to Alicante in the General Budget is “insufficient” and will call for changes to be presented
Merinos addressed the development of the Generalitat Budgets, noting they are nearing completion and will be published at the designated time. While dates were not specified, the statements confirmed that essential services such as Health, Education and Addiction programs would not face cuts. Every allocation is expected to be used efficiently, prioritizing well-being and reducing unnecessary expenses, political costs, and discretionary spend that could strain public resources.