Asturias and Finland- New Industrial Partnership Opportunities
Finland’s strong commitment to sustainable industry, clean technologies and infrastructure modernisation is creating new opportunities for international industrial collaboration. In this context, Asturias, one of Spain’s most industrialised regions, is positioning itself as a highly valuable partner for Finnish companies seeking specialised manufacturing capabilities, engineering expertise and flexible industrial collaboration.
To strengthen these connections, a business mission to the Nordic countries, including a visit to Finland from 6 to 8 May 2026, was organised by ASTUREX, the organisation dedicated to supporting the internationalisation of Asturian companies, and Alfombra Roja, a consultancy with more than 20 years of experience supporting companies in building strategic partnerships, entering new markets and generating long-term business opportunities across Southern Europe and the Nordic region.
Why Asturias is a valuable industrial partner for Finland
Asturias has a long industrial tradition and a strong concentration of companies operating in metalworking, energy, advanced manufacturing and industrial engineering. Many Asturian firms are internationally active and offer highly competitive solutions that align closely with the needs of the Finnish market, particularly in areas linked to energy transition, industrial efficiency and sustainable technologies.
For Finnish companies, Asturias offers several key advantages: strong industrial know-how, competitive manufacturing capacity, experience in international projects and increasing expertise in renewable energy and decarbonisation technologies. Asturian companies are also recognised for their flexibility, technical specialisation and ability to adapt solutions to demanding industrial environments.
As Finland continues advancing towards a greener and more technology-driven economy, partnerships with specialised industrial regions such as Asturias can contribute additional value, technical capabilities and reliable industrial cooperation.
This initiative reflects the shared interest of both regions in building long-term industrial partnerships focused on innovation, sustainability and international growth.
Spain as a growing market: Why trade fairs matter for finnish companies
Spain continues to strengthen its position as one of Europe’s most dynamic and attractive markets for international business. Driven by strong domestic demand, ongoing infrastructure investment, and a growing focus on sustainability, innovation, and industrial transformation, Spain offers significant opportunities across a wide range of sectors—from construction and energy to consumer goods and agri-food.
For international companies, particularly from Finland, one of the most effective ways to understand the Spanish market and its key sectors is by participating in trade fairs. These events provide direct access to industry leaders, decision-makers, and innovators, while also offering a clear overview of market trends, technologies, and business opportunities.
Among the various exhibition platforms in Europe, IFEMA Madrid stands out as one of the most important international trade fair organisers. Based in Madrid, IFEMA hosts a wide portfolio of leading sector-specific events that serve as key meeting points for global industries and offer strong opportunities for international expansion.
Why these fairs matter for Finnish companies
For Finnish companies, these events represent much more than exhibition spaces, they are strategic platforms to understand the Spanish market, identify partners, and explore new business opportunities. Spain’s growing economy, combined with its role as a gateway to Southern Europe and Latin America, makes it an increasingly relevant destination for international expansion.
By engaging with these fairs, Finnish companies can gain direct insight into sector-specific trends, connect with potential partners, and position themselves within one of Europe’s most active and opportunity-rich markets.
Key upcoming IFEMA trade fairs
“IFEMA Madrid is Spain’s leading trade fair operator and one of the most important in Europe, hosting major international professional fairs and events that can create interesting business opportunities for Finnish companies”, says Maribel Álvarez, Official Delegate of IFEMA Madrid for the Nordic countries and CEO of Alfombra Roja.
In the coming months, IFEMA Madrid has a full schedule of trade fairs that are particularly relevant for Finnish companies looking to explore or strengthen their presence in Spain and Southern Europe.
ESS+ by SICUR 2026
26-28 August
A specialised event focused on security, emergency response, and safety technologies. It is highly relevant for Finnish companies working in advanced safety systems, industrial security, and smart infrastructure solutions.
FIAA 2026 (International Bus and Coach Trade Fair)
22-26 September
A key event for the transport and mobility sector, showcasing innovations in public transport, electrification, and sustainable mobility—areas where Finnish expertise is particularly strong.
Madridjoya 2026
24-27 September
A key international fair for jewellery and watches, offering opportunities for Finnish design brands and companies in the luxury and lifestyle sectors to explore the Spanish and Southern European markets.
Bisutex 2026
24-27 September
Focused on fashion accessories and personal image products, Bisutex is a relevant platform for Finnish brands in design, lifestyle, and consumer goods.
CONSTRUTEC 2026
11-13 November 2026
The International Construction Week at IFEMA Madrid is the leading professional gathering for the construction sector in Spain, bringing together four key trade fairs: CONSTRUTEC, VETECO, SMART DOORS, and PISCIMAD. This integrated format covers the entire construction value chain, from building materials and systems to windows, façades, doors, and aquatic facility equipment, making it a key platform for innovation, sustainability, and industry networking.
Alfombra Roja is preparing a dedicated mission to visit this event, facilitating direct business connections between Finnish and Spanish industry players.
Fruit Attraction
6-8 October
One of the world’s leading trade fairs for the fruit and vegetable industry, bringing together global players across the entire agri-food value chain. It is particularly relevant for Finnish companies in food technology, logistics, and sustainable packaging.
GUEXT 2026
15-17 October
A specialised hospitality and equipment fair, covering hotel, restaurant, and catering industries—sectors with growing demand for innovative and sustainable solutions.
PRIVEL
4-5 November
An international private label trade fair connecting manufacturers and retailers. It is highly relevant for Finnish companies in food production, FMCG, and retail supply chains looking to expand internationally.
CONSTRUTEC 2026
11-13 November 2026
The International Construction Week at IFEMA Madrid is the leading professional gathering for the construction sector in Spain, bringing together four key trade fairs: CONSTRUTEC, VETECO, SMART DOORS, and PISCIMAD. This integrated format covers the entire construction value chain, from building materials and systems to windows, façades, doors, and aquatic facility equipment, making it a key platform for innovation, sustainability, and industry networking.
Alfombra Roja is preparing a dedicated mission to visit this event, facilitating direct business connections between Finnish and Spanish industry players.
GENERA
24-26 November 2026
A leading energy and environment fair focused on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainability—core areas of strength for Finnish industry.
MATELEC
24-26 November 2026
A major trade fair for electrical engineering, electronics, and industrial solutions, offering strong opportunities in smart systems, automation, and electrification technologies.
SRR
9-11June 2026
The International Fair of Recovery and Recycling, SRR, is considered the main event in Spain in the circular economy sector, promoted by FER (Spanish Federation of Recovery and Recycling).
Tecma
9-11June 2026
The International Trade Fair for Recovery and Recycling, Tecma, is a leading event for sustainability and responsible urban development.
For more information:
Maribel Álvarez
Official Delegate of IFEMA Madrid for the Nordic countries