The economic impact of hunting in Spain: a driving force for rural areas

Hunter observing the mountains through binoculars, highlighting the economic impact of hunting in rural areas

At a critical time for rural Spain, a recent study by Fundación Artemisan reveals the fundamental role of hunting as an economic, social, and environmental engine. Titled "Social and Economic Impact of Hunting in Spain 2023", the report presents compelling data that highlights the importance of this activity in the sustainable development of rural areas.

Economic impact of hunting in Spain

In 2023, hunting activities contributed over €10.19 billion to Spain’s GDP, created nearly 199,000 jobs, and generated €1.2 billion in tax revenue. These figures confirm hunting as a key industry for the rural economy. Additionally, nearly €289 million were invested in environmental actions, underlining its active role in nature conservation.

Each hunter spends an average of €12,069 per year, while hunting organizers invest over €139,000. This spending supports a wide value chain including tourism, hospitality, the firearms industry, and game meat sales, which alone generate over €129 million. Public administrations also collect more than €190 million through hunting-related fees and licenses.

Hunters walking in the mountains, highlighting the economic impact of hunting in rural areas

Environmental benefits of hunting

Beyond its economic importance, hunting plays a crucial ecological role. Managing populations of species like wild boar and roe deer contributes to road safety and ecosystem health. Wild boar numbers have doubled in the past 10 years, accounting for 83.7% of traffic accidents involving wildlife. Regulated hunting helps mitigate this risk.

Around 86.7% of hunting grounds are privately managed, enabling significant conservation investment: more than €288 million in 2023. This includes firebreak maintenance, reforestation, and programs to protect species such as the Iberian lynx and the red-legged partridge.

Hunting as cultural heritage

Hunting is a key part of Spain’s historical heritage. It features in the works of artists like Goya and Velázquez and in traditions such as montería and falconry, both declared Assets of Cultural Interest. In 2023 alone, 1.9 million people took part in educational and awareness-raising activities related to hunting.

Also, hunting education is promoted in universities and federations, with 53.3% organizing educational workshops. Moreover, hunting has significantly enriched the Spanish language through a distinct and specialized vocabulary.

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Corsini Hunts and our rural commitment

From an environmental perspective, more than 30% of hunting estates participate in programs to conserve protected species, turning these lands into safe havens for biodiversity.

At Corsini Hunts, we advocate for well-managed, passionate, and sustainable hunting at our estate, La Flamenca Estate. We work closely with Fundación Artemisan to ensure hunting continues to be a vital tool for sustainability and rural development in Spain.

Because the economic impact of hunting in Spain goes beyond numbers: it represents identity, a future, and balance between development and nature.

Hunter preparing to shoot during a traditional hunt, illustrating the economic impact of hunting in Spain

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1What is the economic impact of hunting in Spain?

In 2023, hunting contributed more than €10.19 billion to Spain’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and generated nearly 199,000 direct and indirect jobs. It also provided €1.2 billion in tax revenue for public coffers. These figures position hunting as a key economic driver, especially in rural areas.

2Does hunting help combat rural depopulation?

Yes. Over 80% of the jobs generated by hunting remain in rural areas, helping to retain population, sustain the local economy, and revitalize sectors like hospitality, tourism, and local trade.

3Does hunting have a positive environmental impact?

Absolutely. In 2023, nearly €289 million were invested in conservation efforts, including reforestation, firebreak maintenance, and programs to protect species such as the Iberian lynx and the red-legged partridge. Additionally, game species control helps prevent ecological imbalances and wildlife-related traffic accidents.

4Who manages hunting grounds in Spain?

About 86.7% of hunting land is privately managed, allowing for proper and sustainable resource planning. These areas often become natural corridors and safe havens for biodiversity.

5What role does hunting play in Spanish culture?

Hunting is part of Spain’s cultural and historical heritage, reflected in art, literature, and traditions like montería and falconry, both recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage. Additionally, hunting vocabulary and expressions have enriched the Spanish language.

6Which other sectors benefit from hunting?

Industries such as firearms manufacturing, textiles, rural tourism, hospitality, and game meat trade are directly supported by hunting. This activity creates a value chain that drives many branches of the economy.