The Spanish tourist sector continues to benefit from political unrest in nearby competing tourist destinations in North Africa and the Middle East. In 2013, the tourism industry in Spain is on track for another good year with a record number of overseas visitors in August and higher average spending. However, domestic tourism (of Spaniards) is down. Still, the Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional (HRI) sector in Spain offers excellent opportunities for U.S. food-ingredient and food-product exporters. Entry into the Spanish market generally requires that potential U.S. exporters negotiate specific arrangements with established importers.
