The Valencian government has urged faster progress on planned works at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández and Valencia airports, saying capacity must keep pace with sustained passenger growth. Industry, Tourism, Innovation and Commerce Minister Marián Cano made the remarks at the closing of Hosbec’s 2026 General Assembly, held at Alicante-Elche airport.

Cano said international tourist spending in the Valencian Community exceeded 16 billion euros in 2025, up more than 6% year on year. She added that the region has recorded five consecutive months of growth in this indicator through to March 2026. Tourism employment also rose, with around 323,000 people working in the sector by the end of 2025, a 4% increase on the previous year.

The minister criticised the structure of the EU’s Next Generation tourism funds, arguing they should have been designed in a more direct and practical way to boost competitiveness. She also renewed calls for reform of the region’s funding system, warning that underfunding limits investment and public services.

Cano thanked hotel association Hosbec, which represents more than 380 companies and 115,000 accommodation places. She also confirmed that the latest regional tourism grant scheme received 303 applications, 16% more than last year, backed by a 4 million euro budget to support promotion and marketing initiatives.