With the surge in demand sustainable foodsThe area dedicated to organic production in Spain has seen a remarkable increase. According to the INE's structural survey, the area under organic management reached 2.229.493 hectares in 2023, what translates into 19,2% more than in 2020 and is already equivalent to 9,5% of the entire SAU.
In just three years, the field has incorporated more than 350.000 hectares to certified or transitional practices, in line with the objectives of European Green Deal y the heat pumpThis change is not just regulatory: it responds to a consumer who values ​​processes with low environmental impact It is already a sector that is adapting its business model.
Key figures and European context
Spain ranks among the European countries with the highest relative weight of organic agriculture, and official data distinguishes two magnitudes. The organic agricultural land area (SAU) adds 2,23 million hectares, while the total area classified in organic production of the MAPA exceeds the 2,44 million by including forested areas with livestock that They do not count as SAU.
The growth potential is immediate: there is more than 700.000 hectares in process of conversion towards the ecological modelThis anticipates new additions in the short and medium term if market conditions and public support are maintained.
Which crops drive growth?
The crops with the highest commercial value have been the driving force. The area of organic fruit trees +54,5% and other woody +62,6% has grown strongly, along with the vineyard +29,9% and the olive grove +27,8%They also made progress arable land (+15,7%) and permanent pastures (+7,4%), reflecting a diversification of the model.
Beyond simply meeting requirements, many farms have redirected their offerings to meet a demand that calls for responsible products and traceable. Cooperatives and farmers have accelerated conversions upon seeing that the commercial outlet and brand positioning improves with ecological certification.
Organic livestock farming
The transformation also extends to livestock farming: 5,8% of sheep, the 4,9% of the goat, the 4,3% of cattle, the 1,6% of poultry and the 0,3% of pork They are raised under organic standards, according to the INE, with special support from extensive pastures and management.
This progress involves adjustments in feeding, sanitary management, certification, and marketing, but it opens doors to value niches and stable contracts, especially in areas with a tradition of grazing and short supply chains.
Rural land and investment: where demand is concentrated
The demand for organic land is increasing the value of certified properties or those with the conditions to obtain certification, attracting new buyer profilesProducers who want to grow organically, agri-food companies seeking to secure raw materials, and funds that see the countryside as an opportunity. sustainable asset long term.
Demand is focused on territories with a strong agricultural culture such as AndalucÃa, Castilla la Mancha, Valencian Community, Estremadura y MurciaIn terms of volume, the following stand out in the organic sector: Andalusia (1,25 million hectares), Castilla-La Mancha (346.000 ha), Catalonia (243.000 ha) y Valencian Community (105.000 ha); in the case of EstremaduraThe ecological SAU surpasses the 96.916,7 hectares.
What to look out for in the medium term
With a more diversified production base and a conversion underway, future performance will depend on prices, subsidies and access to markets. The method of production is increasingly important in the valuation of a farm: the combination of sustainability and regenerative agricultureEnvironmental footprint and certifications have become a profitability factor, not just a requirement.
The picture painted by the latest data is clear: more ecological surfaceWoody crops and vineyards leading the way, livestock farming advancing step by step, and a market for farms incorporating environmental criteria into its decisions. Spain is consolidating its position in Europe and faces the next stage supported by the ongoing conversion and because of a demand that seems to be settled.
