The President of the Region of Murcia, Fernando López Miras, has confirmed enhanced support for self-employed traders during a meeting with Francisco Casado, the President of ATA Región de Murcia. The regional government has increased funding for assistance to these traders from five hundred thousand euros to seven hundred thousand euros, reaffirming its commitment to a vital sector of the regional economy. This funding is available for individual traders in proximity commerce, with each potentially receiving up to three thousand euros.

Launched on twenty-fourth September, the initiative aims to provide direct financial support to sustain local businesses, allowing them to cover rent, supplies, or transition to digital operations. The additional two hundred thousand euros will allow more self-employed individuals to benefit from this financial aid, countering the proposed increase in national social security contributions that could impose significant financial burdens on local enterprises.

Marisa López Aragón, the regional councillor for Business, Employment and Social Economy, emphasised the importance of supporting autonomous workers, contrasting the regional government’s approach with that of the national government. She remarked, “While others increase contributions, we expand support. While others create obstacles, we pave the way.” The councillor noted that the proposed national increases could cost the region nearly two hundred million euros, further stressing her government’s commitment to reducing taxes and fostering economic freedom.

Today, over one hundred and five thousand self-employed individuals operate in the Region of Murcia, making it the second fastest-growing region in Spain for self-employment. The regional government’s policies, including the Extended Zero Rate and the Comprehensive Strategy for Self-Employment, have successfully reduced fiscal pressures, enhanced confidence, and provided essential support to those taking entrepreneurial risks.