| Production
is back on track after stagnation in
the year 2001
 The
Spanish forge industry reached a historical production record
of 230 000 tons in year 2002, with a growth of 2.4% from the
previous year. . The sector had previously achieved an impressive
average annual growth of 10% between 1996 - 2000 until unfavorable
market conditions caused a stagnation in 2001.
Total value of production reached 340 millions
euros which represents a 4.6% growth from the previous year.
Productivity stable after a remarkable growth
in 2000
 Average
productivity was stable at 72 tons (employee / year) and average
average revenues per employee were 105 000 euros. This is
close to the productivity level reached in 2000 after a remarkable
growth of 15% annually between 1992-2000.
The main reasons for this growth are investments
made in automation of processes and modernisation of machine
park. It is worth noting that in 2000, price of input resources
such as steel and electricity increased 15% and 10% respectively,
making further productivity gains difficult.
Recruitment increasing slightly
In 2002, the sector counted 3200 employees,
confirming the continuous progression since 1996. Precarious
after restructuring during the late 90'ies, then economic
crises in 2001, the sector has a tendency towards interim
and temporary employment contracts.
The companies in the forge sector
 Following
the restructuring of the sector, the number of companies dropped
from 40 in 1993 to 27 in 2002 to reach 30 companies in 2002.
Most of these companies are located in the Basque region that
represents about 87% of the national production.
The Spanish forges have done a lot of efforts
in later years to respect global quality standards. Most of
the companies have ISO9000 certification and a large number
is in the process of obtaining QS qualification for the automotive
sector (primary customer sector).
Customer sectors
 The
automotive industry is by far the most important customer
sector of the Spanish forge industry representing 72% of production
and a total value of 244 million euros. Due to this dependence
on the automotive industry, the Spanish forge industry remains
vulnerable to global economic cycles.
Exports
Exportations have remained a steady 44% of
production representing 100 000 tons in 2002. 66% of Spain's
forge exports are destined to the European market thanks to
strong demand from the automotive industry, equipment manufacturers
and petrochemical industry. 24% of exports are destined to
North America, a total of 23 000 tons, followed by South America
(5%) and
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