Mobile World Congress 2025 generated €561 million economic impact to Barcelona

Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2025 has once again proven to be a major economic driver for the city, generating a record-breaking €561 million in economic impact, according to data released this week by the GSMA. This marks a 12% increase over the €502 million generated in 2024, reinforcing the event’s position as one of the world’s most influential tech gatherings and a key contributor to the local economy.

This year’s edition attracted 109,000 attendees from 205 countries and territories, matching pre-pandemic levels. More than 2,900 exhibitors, sponsors, and partners showcased innovations across the Fira Gran Via and Fira Montjuïc venues. The event also featured over 1,200 speakers, 41% of whom were women, underscoring a continued commitment to diversity and inclusion in the tech industry.

“MWC and Barcelona are perfect partners – united by innovation, collaboration, and shared ambition”

John Hoffman, GSMA Ltd.’s CEO

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“MWC and Barcelona are perfect partners – united by innovation, collaboration, and shared ambition. The strength of our partnership with Barcelona continues to deliver mutual success, and we are proud to contribute to the city’s prosperity and opportunities. We thank the Host City Parties for their unwavering support, and we are so grateful to the people of Barcelona for sharing their extraordinary city with us,” said GSMA Ltd.’s CEO, John Hoffman.  

Since its move to Barcelona in 2006, MWC has brought in over €6.9 billion to the city’s economy and created approximately 173,000 part-time jobs, further strengthening its role as a strategic partner for Catalonia’s tech and business ecosystem.

MWC 2025 supported the creation of 13,000 temporary jobs, benefiting sectors including hospitality, transportation, event production, and logistics. The conference also hosted key parallel events such as 4YFN (Four Years From Now), which featured over 1,000 startups and an estimated €60 billion in potential investment.

Talent-focused initiatives, such as Talent Arena and youth programs like mSchools, further extended the event’s social and educational reach. The programs supported by MWC's success have played a significant role in transforming Barcelona into one of Europe's leading technology centers.

The influence of MWC goes beyond its annual week in spring, playing a key role in the city's ongoing development as a global tech hub throughout the year.

Source: GSMA MWC Barcelona