Canary Islands:
Where businesses discover their best

WHAT IS THE ZEC (CANARY ISLANDS SPECIAL ZONE)?

The Canary Islands are developing into one of the most dynamic business locations in Europe – a place where innovation, talent and opportunity come together under Europe’s stable framework. Long known for their climate and quality of life, the islands are now increasingly recognised as a thriving hub for international business, technology and sustainable investment.

Across the archipelago, a diverse and growing ecosystem has emerged, driven by collaboration between public institutions, research centres and private companies. More than 1,600 technology and innovation companies operate on the islands, covering areas such as renewable energy, ICT, audiovisual production, gaming, animation, aerospace and more.

This ecosystem is supported by Proexca, the economic development agency of the Canary Islands, which acts as a strategic partner for companies wishing to set up or expand their activities here. Through tailored support and long-term guidance, Proexca helps companies integrate into the local environment and open up new markets. Thanks to this model, almost 1,000 international companies have already chosen the Canary Islands as the base for their growth.

Talent plays a decisive role in this success. With seven universities, 176 vocational training centres and more than 6,000 graduates per year – including over 2,300 in science and technology disciplines – the Canary Islands offer a qualified, multilingual and adaptable workforce. Companies benefit from one of the lowest staff turnover rates in Spain, ensuring continuity, stability and commitment.

Strategic location
The islands’ strategic position between Europe, Africa and the Americas, their air and sea connections and fast digital infrastructure create a unique platform for trade, investment and global collaboration. Incentives for investment in Africa further strengthen their role as a gateway to new markets, while the European legal and tax framework provides security and reliability.

All these advantages are complemented by a tax system that is unique in Europe, with a corporate tax rate of only 4%, no withholding tax on repatriated dividends and generous deductions for research and development, innovation and audiovisual production. This framework ensures competitive and sustainable growth.

In the Canary Islands, companies find the conditions they need to reach their full potential. The combination of talent, connectivity, ecosystem support, lifestyle and tax advantages creates the ideal environment for innovation and growth. Here, businesses can truly develop, thrive and give their best.

Location of the Canary Islands: The Canary Islands lie in the Atlantic Ocean, around 100 to 500 kilometres west of Morocco (north-west Africa). Politically, however, they belong to Spain and therefore to the European Union. The archipelago consists of seven main islands: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the largest and most densely populated islands.

Why the Canary Islands are so popular

Mild climate all year round: The Canaries are nicknamed the “islands of eternal spring” because temperatures are pleasant throughout the year – mostly between 20 and 28 °C. There is hardly any extreme heat in summer and rarely any cold in winter – perfect for anyone seeking the sun or wanting to escape the European winter.

Diverse landscapes: Each island has its own character. Lanzarote is volcanic, with black lava and surreal scenery; Fuerteventura has long, light sandy beaches; Tenerife has green forests in the north, desert in the south and, with Mount Teide (3,718 m), the highest mountain in Spain. La Palma and La Gomera are ideal for hiking, with lush nature. This diversity makes the islands attractive for beach holidays, hiking, surfing and nature experiences.

Easy to reach: Good flight connections from Europe, especially from Germany, the United Kingdom and Scandinavia. Flight time from Central Europe: only around 4–5 hours.

Part of the EU: No visa issues for EU citizens, the euro as currency, familiar infrastructure and healthcare.Quality of life and costs: Many expats appreciate the relaxed way of life, friendly people, good food and relatively low cost of living (compared with northern Europe). There are also many German-speaking communities, especially on Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura.

offer sunshine all year round, are scenically diverse, are easy to reach and safe, and allow a relaxed way of life – ideal for holidays as well as for a fresh start.