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Catalonia solidifies its standing among the top five most digitally advanced regions in Europe

Business
Catalonia's digitization rate stands at 63.96%, surpassing the EU average by 11.69 points.

Catalonia proudly reaffirms its stature as a digital frontrunner, demonstrating continuous progress in the realms of society and the economy. The recently unveiled fourth edition of the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI Catalonia 2022) shows Catalonia's digital prowess, positioning it as Europe's fifth most advanced region for the fourth consecutive year. This report, developed by the Catalan Technology Circle under the Ministry for Business and Labour, utilizes the European Commission's methodology to underscore Catalonia's commitment to digital transformation.

Catalonia's digitization rate stands impressively at 63.96%, surpassing the EU average by a notable 11.69 points. Alongside the Nordic group, encompassing Denmark, Finland, Sweden, and the Netherlands, Catalonia maintains its leadership in digital development across Europe.

DESI Catalonia 2022 mirrors the structure of its predecessor, delving into four dimensions (Human Capital, Connectivity, Integration of Digital Technology, and Digital Public Services), 10 sub-dimensions, and 33 indicators.

In the latest edition, Catalonia demonstrates progress across all dimensions, boosting its overall index by 5.69 points. Growth is observed in Human Capital (+0.51 points), Connectivity (+13.63 points), Integration of Digital Technology (+3.55 points), and Digital Public Services (+5.09 points). While Catalonia slips one place in Human Capital, gains are evident in Connectivity and Integration of Digital Technology, with Digital Public Services maintaining its fourth spot.

Breakdown:

  • Human Capital: Internet user competencies see an upward trajectory, particularly in basic skills. However, advanced and development skills show more modest results. Data on ICT training and employment, particularly among women, slightly surpasses the European average, indicating potential for further improvement.

  • Connectivity: A stronghold for Catalonia securing the second spot, trailing only behind Denmark. Noteworthy achievements include Catalonia's top ranking in fixed broadband and second place in fixed broadband coverage, outpacing several EU member states.

  • Integration of Digital Technology: Catalonia's ascent from the eighth to the seventh position. Despite commendable digitization levels in businesses, the growth in e-commerce turnover among small and medium-sized enterprises has plateaued.

  • Digital Public Services: Catalonia maintains its fourth position, indicating consistent progress in public administration digitization. However, opportunities for enhancement in user positions within e-government and open data persist. Catalonian endeavors in the digital realm continue to set benchmarks for innovation and progress across Europe.