April recorded a significant milestone in the labor market with record results, despite Easter not falling in that month. Over the course of four weeks, 200,000 new jobs were created, with almost half of them in the hospitality sector. This led to the number of average Social Security affiliates surpassing 21 million for the first time since records began in 2001. Additionally, 60,500 people found employment, reducing the total number of unemployed to 2,666,500, the lowest figure in 16 years.
The strong job growth in April allowed the number of Social Security affiliates to exceed 21 million for the first time since records began. Geographically, the Balearic Islands, Andalusia, and Catalonia saw the most job creation. Over two-thirds of new jobs were concentrated in these regions. The hospitality industry was responsible for most job growth during this period. Additionally, administrative and auxiliary services and commerce also experienced considerable expansion.
The increase in self-employment also played a crucial role in shaping April’s strong labor market performance. A total of 12,000 new registrations brought the total number of self-employed workers to 3,364,938 – a high figure after 16 years – indicating that more people are choosing entrepreneurship as an alternative career path.
Overall April was a significant month for women as they benefited from reduced unemployment numbers with 29719 fewer women counted as unemployed compared to March. Furthermore; women made up about half (47%) of Spain’s workforce.
In conclusion, April’s labor market performance showed significant improvements across various sectors and regions with over two hundred thousand new jobs created within four weeks while keeping an eye on historical records by reaching twenty one million social security affiliates and lowest figure of unemployment in sixteen years.
