Costa Calida 16 – 22 April 2026 Issue 2128

Costa Cálida I No. 2128 I 16 - 22 April 2026 I FREE Newspape r

175 years of tradition in Murcia

MURCIA has unveiled a commemorative monument in the city centre to mark the 175th anniversary of the Burial of the Sardine, a vibrant celebration that follows Holy Week festivities. The landmark stands at the meeting point between Calles El Pilar and Sagasta, the exact spot where the celebration was carried out for the first time.

The landmark, a sculpture created by Ismael Cerezo, known artistically as ‘Flyppy’, reinforces the collective memory of the people of Murcia and highlights the origins of this unique and exciting annual festival.

The monument depicts a large sardine surrounded by a group of

smaller sardines, made of colourful red glass and cast iron and standing atop a Macael marble column.

The piece of urban art aims not only to beautify its surroundings, but also to connect the past with the present, and highlight the origin of this festival, which has been declared of international tourist interest.

The event is celebrated widely in Spain, but notable and large-scale celebrations take place in Murcia, filling the city’s streets with music, costumes, and colour.

Cultural commemoration Helicopter heroics

EMERGENCY services in the Region of Murcia acted quickly and managed to rescue an injured hiker in the Sierra Espuña, a popular mountain range and regional park located in the municipality of Totana. The hiker, a 52-year-old man, had suffered a fall which caused a knee injury.

The incident occurred at 8.21 on the morning of Saturday, April 11. The Emergency Coordination Centre received a 112 call from the hiker himself. He alerted Emergency Services to his location, but the area was difficult to access, according to an environmental officer who was deployed to the site.

Murcia first responders rescue stranded hiker

neral Directorate of Citizen Security and Emergencies deployed a helicopter from the Air Rescue Group of the Fire and Rescue Consortium.

The hiker was successfully evacuated by air and immediately taken to the Virgen de la Arrixaca University Clinical Hospital, where he was treated. The quick rescue and treatment of the injured man is yet another example of Murcia’s emergency responders giving their all to ensure residents’ safety above all else.

Abracadabra, Cartagena

City bewitched by magic festival

CARTAGENA recently became the centre of attention - and magic - on the Costa Calida with the celebration of the fourth edition of the Cartagena es Magia International Festival. For three days, the city shone with performances from national and international magicians, brain-teasing escape room challenges, and widespread celebrations that embraced the magic of the city in one blowout festival.

One of the most anticipated aspects of the event was the free magic performances and exhibitions in the streets of the city. Family shows and spectacular specialists took the spotlight in this year’s edition, including Kachinocheve, winner of the National Prize for Comedy Magic, who performed in the lobby of the Ramón Alonso Luzzy Cultural Centre.

Raúl Alegría, known as the ‘New Houdini’, starred in a particularly thrilling escape challenge, ‘The Jaws of Death’. This high-tension show, inspired by the escape challenges of the iconic magician Houdini, featured the illusionist freeing himself from a gigantic steel trap before it closed on him. The challenge became one of the most talked-about events of the entire festival.

The event culminated with the Champions Gala, held at the El Batel Auditorium. During the event, some of the most prestigious and talented performers on the international magic scene graced the stage, consolidating the city as the epicentre of magic in April on the Costa.

Heritage heyday

CARTAGENA’S Puerto de Culturas recently celebrated its 25th anniversary with a spike of visitors in March and some 11 million accumulated visitors over its quarter-century history.

The Puerto de Culturas, which was inaugurated on April 7, 2001, is not only Cartagena’s tourism brand; it is also an action plan that promotes the city’s heritage and cultural landmarks.

In March, the Puerto de Culturas welcomed a record 47,251 visitors, representing a 20.2 per cent increase, or 7,954 people more, compared to the same month of last year.

The project has also attracted more than 11 million people, boosting the city’s cultural profile in the process.

In the last quarter-century, the network of museums and archaeologi -

cal sites managed by the Puerto de Culturas has grown from four to 11 spaces, while the number of visitors has increased from the initial 30,000 people per year to more than 580,000 people per year.

The increased interest in these fascinating cultural and historical sites consolidates Cartagena’s position as a standout at -

traction on the Costa Calida for visitors aiming to discover a unique tapestry of history.

Not only this, the project is making plans to continue expanding. This year, new heritage sites are being planned to open, including the Roman Amphitheatre, the birthplace of Isaac Peral, and the San Leandro Battery.

Filming frenzy in Murcia

THE Region of Murcia has once more showcased its prowess as an ideal filming location, as an audiovisual production released a casting call for extras for a new shoot taking place in April. The casting agency of the major audiovisual production, Modfie, specified that the series requires people of African and Arab origin, as well as children.

The shoot will take place in Murcia from Monday, April 20 to Thursday, May 14. The series, a large-scale production, will also be filming in different locations across Spain, including in Almeria on April 17 and in Barcelona from May 18 to June 5.

This is far from the only production

choosing Murcia as a filming location; the Region has been popular with audiovisual projects for some time, due to its variety of natural environments and the cost-effectiveness of filming licences in Murcia.

Another series, Movistar Plus+’s Secuestro, also began filming in Murcia on Thursday, April 7. The series is headed by director Marcel Barrena, a Barcelona-born filmmaker who achieved the Goya Award for Best Film for El 47. Cartagena, San Javier, Mazarron, Puerto de Mazarron, La Manga, the Calblanque Regional Park, Playa Honda and Los Belones have also been some noteworthy filming locations, hosting shoots for various big-name projects.

Residency sick ruling COURT CLARIFIES RULE

FOREIGN workers in Spain have received a legal clarification after the Supreme Court confirmed that time spent on sick leave must count as time worked when renewing a residence permit. The ruling removes a long-standing grey area affecting thousands of non-EU workers and expatriates.

The court ruled that periods of temporary incapacity, such as medical leave due to illness or accident, must be treated as equivalent to active employment when assessing residency renewals.

In practice, this means illness will no longer count against applicants when authorities assess whether they meet work requirements for renewing residence and work permits.

The decision followed a case involving a domestic worker whose renewal was rejected for insufficient days after falling ill. A lower court supported her claim, but the ruling was later overturned, exposing a gap now closed by the Supreme Court.

The court stated that employment contracts are not terminated during sick leave but merely suspended. Workers remain registered with Spanish Social Security, continue receiving benefits and retain legal employment status. For this reason, the period must be included as part of professional activity.

For expatriates, this means medical leave must be included when calculating eligibility for renewal, particularly where minimum work requirements apply. The ruling ensures greater consistency across authorities. While other conditions remain, sickness will not jeopardise residency status in Spain.

Digital access update

SMS VERIFICATION LAUNCH

SPAIN has made it easier to obtain official documents, with a system allowing Social Security IRPF certificates to be downloaded via SMS from April, without a digital certificate, Cl@ve or complex setup.

The certificate, issued by Spanish Social Security, contains key information linked to benefits, including amounts received, IRPF tax withheld, and records covering the past five years. Although not strictly required to file a tax return with the Spanish Tax Agency, it is used to verify figures and avoid discrepancies.

The process is straightforward. Users access the online certificate service, select SMS identification and receive a one-time code on their phone. After entering the code, the document becomes available, with no prior registration or additional software required.

A key requirement is that the mobile number must match that registered with Social Security. If it does not, the system will not recognise the user and personal details must be updated beforehand.

Other access options remain available, including digital certificates, the electronic ID (DNIe) and Cl@ve. The certificate can also be requested by post, although this is slower to process.

For many expatriates, this simplifies access to administrative documents, reducing reliance on digital certificates and easing interaction with Spanish systems.

With tax season underway, the update offers a quicker way to check income and withholding details with less administrative effort.

Full article at https://tinyurl.com/IRPF-certificates

Family route update

New residency rules

SPAIN’s updated immigration framework is streamlining residency for non-EU nationals with family links to European Union citizens. Following the May 2025 regulatory changes, the ‘Arraigo Familiar’ pathway offers immediate rights to live and work, bypassing traditional waiting periods. By late 2025, more than 214,000 people were already contributing to the national Social Security system through these authorisations.

The route primarily assists parents or legal guardians of minors holding EU, EEA, or Swiss nationality.

Authorities have confirmed that applicants must reside in Spain and demonstrate active parental involvement, such as cohabitation or consistent financial support. Carers for disabled EU citizens also qualify if they share a household and provide ongoing care. For non-EU citizens caring for other non-EU residents, alternative channels like ‘reagrupación familiar’ remain the standard procedure.

Unlike other residency categories, family roots waive the usual two-year prior residence requirement. Applicants must be physically present in Spain at the time of submission, provide a clean criminal record from the last five years, and pay the official processing fee. Applications are submitted via the Mercurio platform or local immigration offices. Successful candidates receive a five-year residency and work permit. However, relatives of Spanish nationals should note that they must follow a different procedure using form EX-24.

euroweeklynews.com

Screen safeguards

MAZARRON has launched an awareness campaign about the risks of digital screen use by children, aiming to inform families, schools and residents in general about the importance of being responsible with the little ones’ use of technology. The campaign, which was announced on the morning of Wednesday, April 8, suggested individuals and institutions work together to prevent the negative effects of digital devices on children.

To be specific, the campaign focuses on reducing and limiting screen time according to age group.

Mazarron campaign warns of children’s screen risks and limits.

Officials advise that, for children aged 0 to six, screen time is not recommended; for children aged seven to 12, screen time should be limited to a maximum of one hour per day under adult supervision; for children between the ages of 13 and 16, screen time should not exceed two hours per day.

According to the experts behind the campaign, this is because many problems can stem from early screen use in children,

including irritability, overstimulation of the brain, language delays, and impaired psychomotor development.

Given these risks, the role of families is crucial in order to reduce and limit young residents’ screen time. Part of the campaign advises avoiding screen use in bedrooms and during meals, as well as fostering healthy habits by setting a good example. Schools should also take note of and align with these recommendations.

River rhythm

THE city of Murcia is celebrating the resounding success of Primavera Río, one of the new features of this year’s edition of the Spring Festival. The event consisted of three unique concerts in an idyllic setting, providing a new experience during the festivities and attracting national and

international visitors.

For three incredible days, the Segura River in Murcia was transformed into a vibrant stage, hosting free concerts from a floating platform next to the sardine sculpture representing the Burial of the Sardine tradition.

In total, thousands of people gathered to enjoy this event on the riverside and on adjacent promenades, as well as from boats in the river, in an open and accessible event designed for all audiences in Murcia to enjoy.

The event featured outstanding performances from standout musicians in the area, including the opener, Walls,

an emerging act, RATA, and the closing act, Maldita Nerea. The passionate and talented artists stood out for their quality and interaction with the crowd, and were very well-received by audiences.

DJ sessions also took the spotlight at Molinos del Río from 5.00pm onwards during these days, generating a vibrant and colourful atmosphere before and after the concerts and packing the venues on each day.

The festival brought culture closer to the public, encouraged participation, and lit up the streets with a traditional and exciting celebration.

Business boom

BUSINESS creation has marked a historic record in the Region of Murcia, with a total of 352 new companies registered and representing an incredible 49.2 per cent year-on-year rise.

The figure is the highest ever recorded for the month of February in Murcia, according to data released by the National Institute of Statistics, or INE.

The February increase also marks two consecutive months of year-on-year

growth in business creation for the Region. It also surpasses the national average, which saw a 45 per cent increase, also representing the best figures in recorded history for Spain.

The creation of the 352 companies in Murcia registered a cost of just over €41.57 million, representing 343.17 per cent more than in the same month of 2025.

The number of companies that increased their

total capital in the Region of Murcia reached 73 in February of 2026, with the total capital in these increases equalling €92.81 million.

The figures represent an encouraging trend of the growth of the Region of Murcia in all sectors, with a decrease in unemployment and an increase in those registered with Social Security, boding well for the region and for the Costa Calida as a whole.

Football frenzy

CARTAGENA hosted the 33rd edition of the Regional Youth Football League Cup at various fields in the city, as well as in La Unión and Torre Pacheco. The tournament, which has now been established as one of the most important spring sporting events in the region, has brought together close to 5,000 young and passionate footballers, in both male and female categories.

The event, organised by the Cartagena City Council in collaboration with other institutions and entities, has brought together sports schools, clubs, and families in this exciting, fun, and vibrant sporting event on the Costa Calida. On Friday, April 10 and Saturday, April 11, dozens of teams

competed at the different venues across the area.

In total, the competition featured 13 categories, ranging from beginner levels to Under-14 and Under-16 categories. The tournament also included Under-14 and Under-18 for the girls’ categories, reflecting a growing support for women’s football and a greater interest in female sports participation from the children. The matches were held simultaneously on more than a dozen municipal pitches, marking the tournament as a major sporting event in Cartagena. Among some of the values highlighted during the event for the children was teamwork, respect, and camaraderie.

Labour lift

ties in the Region for those looking for work, and the figures are expected to continue to improve.

THE Region of Murcia reached its lowest unemployment level since 2008 in March 2026, with the figure falling by almost 6,000 people in one year and Social Security registrations reaching an all-time high. The figures represent a growing trend of more employment and opportuni-

In total, the Region of Murcia ended March 2026 with 74,369 unemployed people, the lowest figure in

nearly two decades. This reflects a drop in unemployment of 5,885 people compared to March of 2025, and a year-on-year decrease of 7.33 per cent. At the same time, employment continues to grow.

The average Social Security affiliation in the Region of Murcia reached 687,736 workers, the highest figure in recorded history for the region. Compared to one year ago, there are 20,664 more members, representing a year-on-year increase of 3.1 per cent.

This decline was observed in all economic sectors, with the greatest progress being made in the services sector, where unemployment decreased by 748 people.

Following the services sector was the construction sector, declining by 93 people; the agriculture sector, declining by 83 people; and the industry sector, declining by 29 people.

Madrid off track

Credit: Shutterstock, Ivan Garcia

FORMULA ONE is returning to Spain for not one, but two Grand Prix’s in 2026 as Madrid joins the international calendar alongside Barcelona. However, many F1 fans are wondering if the Madrid venue will be ready in time for lights out on September 13.

Four months out from the race and the track is looking more like a dirt road than a course t for high speed competition. Fans have shared pictures online of the circuit’s current condition.

Still in the midst of construction, the track consists of a winding road cutting across a sandy eld.

Project chief Luis Garcia Abad has reassured fans that the circuit remains on schedule and will be ready for its September debut.

Expected to cost close to €90 million, the integrated street circuit will wind through both a purpose-built track and local city streets, o ering stunning scenic views of Spain’s capital. This paired with La

Monumental curve, which aims to be the longest corner in F1, is sure to establish the Madrid circuit as a unique addition to the calendar.

Thousands of motorsport fans will ock to Madrid from September 11 to 13, lling the stands (should they eventually be built) for a long-weekend of high-speed action.

As Barcelona’s F1 contract comes to an end this season, Madrid is set to host the Spanish Grand Prix until 2035.

Inside Spain’s healthcare

SPAIN’S public healthcare system, long praised for its quality and accessibility, is facing growing pressure as patients report longer waits for routine appointments. While trust in the system remains high, new data shows that ac-

cess, rather than care itself, is becoming the main concern, particularly in high-demand areas like the Costa Blanca.

Figures from Spain’s 2025 Health Barometer show the average wait to see a family doctor is now 9.15 days for

those not seen immediately. At specialist level, delays are more pronounced, with average waits of around 87 days, rising to over 100 days for some treatments. In the Valencian Community alone, 439,519 patients were waiting for a first specialist consultation in mid-2025.

For residents, the experience is very familiar. Marina Klopova, who has lived in Spain for nearly 17 years, told Euro Weekly News that appointments which once took days now take weeks. A recent request for her husband resulted in a 10-day wait for a blood test and 17 days for a doctor’s appointment. “It feels like this is becoming the system now, not the exception,” she said.

Experts point to rising demand, an ageing population and staff shortages as factors. However, confidence remains strong, with 73.9 per cent still choosing public healthcare, highlighting that while delays grow, quality of care remains trusted.

A box with your name

RESIDENTS in several cities across Spain are being warned that leaving cardboard boxes or parcels beside rubbish containers can result in fines of up to €2,000. The rule is based on municipal waste regulations already in force in cities including Madrid, Valencia, Alicante and Monzon.

Local rules require cardboard to be flattened and placed inside recycling containers. Leaving items next to bins is treated as improper disposal, even if containers are full. Enforcement is carried out by municipal inspectors or Local Police.

ties apply their own rules.

Authorities can identify offenders through shipping labels on packaging, which may include names and addresses. This allows waste to be traced back to individuals, turning discarded packaging into evidence for fines.

Penalties vary depending on the municipality and severity of the offence. In Madrid, fines can reach up to €2,000, while other cities apply different scales. Alicante may impose lower penalties, while Valencia and smaller municipali-

Residents are advised to remove personal details from packaging where possible, although correct disposal remains the primary requirement. Councils recommend folding cardboard and waiting for proper disposal options if bins are full.

The regulations form part of wider efforts to reduce littering and keep public areas clean. Authorities emphasise that enforcement is aimed at ensuring compliance with existing rules rather than introducing new restrictions.

They’re only human

LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT

ISN’T it a marvel? Humanity, that curious species who can’t organise a decent queue at the post office, once again flung itself toward the Moon. Yes, the same Moon we once gazed at romantically, was once more a destination for high-tech adventurers in suits tighter than a taxman’s grip.

One can only applaud the brilliance, the courage, the sheer audacity of it all. But, because there is always a ‘but’ isn’t there? Amidst the thunder of rockets and the poetry of space travel, a rather earthbound concern floated into view. The onboard loo, appeared to be on the blink. Now, forgive me, but while rockets may soar and dreams may ignite, there remains one universal truth; what goes in must, at some point, come out. Even in space. And so, we are left to ponder what on Earth (or off it) were our brave voyagers to do?

One imagines the scene. Four intrepid souls, 10 days confined in a cabin not much larger than a modest cara-

van, all bravely smiling for the cameras while quietly wondering where to, ahem, deposit the inevitable. It rather takes the shine off the romance of space, doesn’t it? Of course, alternatives were suggested.

Containment systems they called them, which sounds frightfully dignified until you realise it’s essentially a glorified doggy bag with ambitions. Now picture it, little parcels of humanity’s less glamorous output, gently bobbing about the cabin like unwanted party balloons. Not quite the vision of the future we were promised! And then the mathematics of it all!

Four people. Ten days. Even the most delicate among us must concede that this was no small logistical challenge. How large must one of these bags be? Suitcase-sized? Trunk-sized? Before long, the spacecraft might have resembled a travelling refuse depot, with our astronauts valiantly navigating their way through an obstacle course of, shall we say, personal contributions.

Naturally, one might ask, couldn’t they simply leave it on the Moon? A sort of lunar calling card? Alas, no.

They weren’t stopping. No quick hop out, no discreet deposit behind a crater. And so, we were left with the rather poetic, if slightly alarming notion that these sealed souvenirs may be jettisoned into the great beyond. Imagine it! Doggy bags drifting through the cosmos for eternity, tiny ambassadors of human digestion, floating past Saturn’s rings or hitching a ride on a solar breeze. Future aliens, stumbling across them, might well conclude that Earthlings were a peculiar lot indeed. Still, let us not be too harsh. Exploration has always had its complications to questionable rations, mankind has never let a minor inconvenience however fragrant stand in the way of discovery. And perhaps, by the time you read this, the problem has probably been resolved, surely, they could sort out a decent flush.

Until then, spare a thought for our gallant explorers. For while they reached for the stars, they remained no different from the rest of us, only human.

Keep the faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com

opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.

Sunscreen recalled

SPANISH health authorities have recalled a batch of Agrado suns creen after identifying a prohibited substance in the product. The recall applies to batch 41997300 of Agra do SPF 50 sunscreen in 100 ml con tainers, following laboratory tests that detected benzophenone.

Benzophenone is banned in cos metic products under European Union regulations. Authorities stated that the substance was present as an impurity rather than an intentionally added ingredient, but at levels that could not be considered acceptable under current rules.

The recall was issued as a precautionary measure, and no adverse health effects have been reported. Consumers have been advised to stop using the product and return it to the point of purchase. Retailers have been instructed to remove the affected batch from sale.

The action forms part of routine market surveillance carried out across the European Union to ensure that cosmetic products comply with safety standards. Only the specified batch is affected, and other products from the same brand remain available.

Officials have reiterated that compliance with EU cosmetic regulations is mandatory and that products found to contain prohibited substances must be withdrawn. The recall highlights the role of ongoing monitoring in identifying and removing non-compliant products from the market.

FINANCE

BUSINESS EXTRA

Profit warning

FINANCIAL experts at ING warn that a prolonged Iran conflict could halve corporate profits due to higher energy costs, rising interest rates, and weaker sales. Markets have so far underestimated this risk, maintaining blind confidence in businesses despite the looming threat.

Heir access

FOLLOWING 31,629 complaints in 2025 against financial institutions, the Bank of Spain determined banks cannot withhold a deceased person’s funds by forcing heirs to first liquidate the deceased’s products or assume their debts.

Sick pay change

MILLIONS will benefit from the UK’s sick pay rule change. 8.4 million workers will be paid from the first day of illness rather than the fourth. Meanwhile, 1.2 million who were previously ineligible for statutory sick pay because they earned less than £125 a week will now be able to claim.

Telefonica deal

TELEFONICA has agreed to sell its Mexican business to Melisa Acquisition consortium for €389 million. The operation is part of the group’s effort to dismantle Latin American operations. Following the Mexican deal, Telefonica will focus on selling its Venezuelan business. Proceeds are earmarked for debt reduction.

Fighting fraud

LLOYDS Banking Group has partnered with IBM to test if quantum computing can help detect and combat money mules. As financial crimes become more complex, the detection software must also evolve. If successful, the algorithm could detect intricate schemes, uncovering fraudulent behaviour which has been concealed amongst legitimate transactions.

million

Spain received 5.6 million international tourists in February 2026, 2.8% more than in the same month of 2025, according to the INE.

Music takeover

UNIVERSAL MUSIC GROUP (UMG) has received a takeover offer from investment company Pershing Square. The US company proposed a cash and shares offer with a value of approximately €30.40 per share. Experts estimate the total value of the deal to be around €55.8 billion.

UMG represents the world’s most famous musicians. Nine of the top ten global recording artists of 2025 are signed to the company, alongside music legends like Queen and ABBA.

The music industry is currently flourishing. Global musical revenue is growing year-on-year, in large part due to streaming subscriptions and a re-invigorated interest from fans in owning physical media such as CDs and vinyls. Despite the success of the industry, UMG’s share price has languished, losing almost a third of their value since going public

EV sales up

in 2021.

One of the groups biggest hurdles has been reaching a consensus on the division of royalties paid out by streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple music.

In a letter to Pershing’s board of directors, Ackman said that UMG has “dramatically underperformed” compared to its US competitors, a failing he plans to fix should the takeover go ahead.

MARCH was the best month on record for electric vehicle registration in the UK, with 196,059 new electrified vehicles registered, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

Spain experienced a similar surge, reflecting growing consumer interest in cleaner transport options. Tesla’s sales in Spain rose 24.9 per cent in March compared to the same month in 2025. Overall, registrations of electrified vehicles, including fully electric and plug-in hybrids, in Spain increased by 58.4 per cent in the first quarter.

This surge in electric vehicle registration coincides with rising tensions in the Middle East which have pushed crude oil prices above $100 (€85) and raised concerns of potential shortages.

While geopolitical tensions and higher fuel prices

EU energy tax

FINANCE ministers from five EU countries - Spain, Germany, Italy, Portugal and Austria - have called for a windfall tax on energy company profits. This proposed measure stems from surging fuel prices. Since the US-Iran conflict began on February 28, European gas prices have risen more than 70 per cent. No further details have been revealed, however it is understood that the tax collected would finance much needed relief to consumers who are paying the price.

Pershing’s offer would give Universal shareholders €9.4 billion cash, in addition to 0.77 in the new US company. UMG is currently established in Amsterdam; however, Ackman also outlined his plan to move the music group to the US. This would pave the way for more investors to buy a stake in the company, leading to a higher earning potential.

may be encouraging drivers to adopt electric alternatives, the growth also reflects government incentives, expanding infrastructure, and a growing preference for sustainable transportation.

Rental profit wanes

RENTAL property profitability in Spain is declining, with average housing yields falling to 6.7 per cent as property prices continue to outpace rental growth. Despite this drop, returns remain comfortably above those of 10-year government bonds, preserving the sector’s relative appeal.

Data show that more affordable cities are delivering stronger yields, while prime markets suffer from reduced profitability due to higher acquisition costs. Among real estate assets, offices offer the highest returns at around 11 per cent, followed by retail premises, residential property and parking spaces. Although parking remains profitable, garages continue to rank among the least lucrative options.

AVERAGE social security contributions reached an all-time high in March, hitting 21,882,147 following an employment surge. Figures were up by 211,510 from February.

The hospitality sector experienced the largest boost, adding 79,701 jobs, mostly due to temporary hires. Administrative and construction roles followed, although at a distance, with 17,206 and 17,156 new employees respectively. Consequently, the total figure of unemployed people dipped to 2,419,712, the lowest in the last 18 years.

THE first draft of the Occupational Risk Prevention Law sees stress, mental fatigue and digitalisation added to the list of occupational risks that companies must monitor and prevent. The draft also stated companies must implement action plans for when the effects of climate change limit employee’s ability to travel to work. Additionally, companies will be required to offer pregnant women an adapted role or a different position with the same salary to prevent her leaving the workforce prematurely.

Rail trends

THE CNMC reports mixed results for Spain’s rail sector in Q4 2025. High-speed passenger traffic grew overall, reaching 10.6 million travellers, although performance varied by corridor. Notably, the Madrid-Barcelona route saw a 13 per cent drop in passengers, the first decline since market liberalisation.

Average ticket prices rose sharply versus 2024 - up 36 per cent on Madrid-Barcelona and 23 per cent on Madrid-Valencia - but remained below pre-liberalisation levels. In freight, total volumes increased by 2.6 per cent compared with 2024, despite uneven operator performance.

SECOND-HAND sites are changing the retail landscape, with a new poll from KPMG UK revealing one in 10 consumers buy non-grocery items from resale platforms. According to the data, 15 per cent of young people aged 18 to 24, and 11 per cent aged 25 to 34, primarily buy from such sites. Affordability and sustainability are among the main reasons why buying second-hand goods has become the first choice for many.

LONDON - FTSE 100

3I Group 2.672,50 2.713,00 2.648,00 491,53K

Admiral Group 3.260,0 3.276,0 3.240,6 171,24K

Airtel Africa 384,40 389,60 383,20 292,11K

Anglo American 3.510,5 3.516,0 3.423,0 1,96M

Antofagasta 3.760,50 3.783,00 3.659,50 299,51K

Associated British Foods 1.923,0 1.926,0 1.895,5 174,1K

AstraZeneca 15.402,0 15.450,0 15.235,7 216,01K

Auto Trader Group Plc 476,52 481,40 473,30 1,3M

Aviva 631,70 634,10 630,00 2,71M

B M European Value Retail 176,00 184,00 173,50 3,71M

BAE Systems 2.201,88 2.283,50 2.176,50 4,54M

Barclays 441,70 442,70 434,50 10,34M

Barratt Redrow 267,59 268,60 263,00 1,84M

Beazley 1.272,00 1.273,00 1.271,35 4,07M

Berkeley 3.514,0 3.518,0 3.428,0 40,02K

BP 569,50 579,40 569,10 8,23M British American Tobacco 4.378,0 4.399,0 4.347,0 994,76K

BT Group 214,70 215,70 213,05 2,4M

Bunzl 2.349,0 2.357,0 2.327,0 734,16K

Centrica 209,80 213,20 209,00 2,8M

Coca Cola HBC AG 4.578,0 4.579,0 4.380,0 308,12K Compass 27,73 29,14 26,78 971,79K ConvaTec Group 236,00 236,40 222,80 1,76M Croda Intl 2.959,0 2.966,0 2.900,0 44,79K

5.110,0 5.125,0 5.060,0 34,12K

1.466,0 1.473,0 1.448,6 939,62K

6.635,00 6.665,00 6.545,00 49,25K

390,40 392,51 380,80 1,92M

536,40 545,00 532,26 585,11K

2.633,5 2.576,5

680,50 683,00 662,50 106,55K

BUSINESS EXTRA

Energy plant

INDIA is building a renewable energy plant the size of Madrid. Set to be the biggest in the world, the plant will supply electricity to 16 million homes, generate more than 15,000 jobs and reduce emissions of carbon dioxide by 58 million tons. The plant will address energy shortages and uphold sustainable commitments.

Student loan cap

BRITAIN is capping student loan interest rates at 6 per cent from September, due to the rising inflation which would place an unfair financial burden on students and graduates if not for the government’s intervention. Tuition fees in England and Wales are currently capped at £9,535.

Construction crisis

YET another critical in dustry is facing talent shortages. The Spanish Technological Platform for Construction recently re vealed that 90 per cent of all construction workers in Spain are over 30 years old. Of that amount, 22 per cent are over 55 years old, making them eligible for retirement within the next 10 years.

Of the 1,530,002 people currently employed in the sector, only 164,898 are un der 30 years old, represen ting a mere 10.8 per cent of

Staycation price spike

IN 2025, the British government propo sed a tourist tax on overnight stays in the UK. However, a recent analysis by Oxford Economics reveals the effects on Britain’s tourist industry could be disastrous.

The study considered three scena rios: a 5 per cent levy, £2 levy per per son per night and a £2 levy per room

per night. Each one would result in a loss of jobs, less overnight stays, a £2.2 billion reduction in GDP, and a £1.6 reduction in tourism spending. Holidaying in the UK, even for stay cations, would become costlier, and result in a loss of investment risking the country’s position as a competitive destination.

all employees. This is espe cially concerning in such a physically demanding profession where an older workforce would result in a decrease in productivity.

Without enough wor kers, the sector will face a talent shortage which would undermine its com petitiveness. This would lead to project delays, a dip in construction quality and hinder the sector’s techno logical development.

According to research by the BBVA, an influx of 700,000 to 800,000 new construction workers are needed to meet demand. Experts suggest immigra tion could be the key to fi lling vacancies.

The level of education in Spain’s construction sec tor is below the average of neighbouring countries, which could hinder pro ductivity. Employee trai ning schemes must be im plemented and promoted to bridge the gap.

Lasting luxury

EUROPE’S luxury retail market continues to ex pand despite economic challenges, with physical store openings rising by 13 per cent in 2025, rea ching 96 new locations, per the European Luxury Retail Report. Brands are focusing on cultivating a consumer base through customer experiences and engagement rather than immediate sales.

MERCADONA has beco me the second‑highest supermarket worldwide in revenue per employee, only behind Costco, thanks to strong productivity. The Spanish retailer generated around €38 billion in sales with about 115,000 workers, resulting in approximately €332,000 in revenue per employee. As a result, em ployees benefit from abo ve‑average salaries and an extra pay bonus.

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Costa del Sol Whopping wallet return

TWO university students in Malaga have been praised for their integrity after returning a lost wallet containing over €1,300 in cash. The young women, aged 19 and 21, discovered the item in the street and immediately contacted the Local Police.

Upon inspection, officers found €1,332.50 in cash, a driving licence, health card, and bank card. The documentation allowed police to identify the owner, a 42-year-old man, who was unaware he had lost the wallet until the authorities contacted him, reuniting him with his belongings in full.

The return was particularly significant as the funds were intended for repairs to a van used by a business supporting people with disabilities. The owner expressed his gratitude to both the students and the officers for their swift actions.

Authorities remind the public that the safest procedure when finding lost property in Spain is to hand it directly to the police.

Axarquia

Park & ride planned

COMMUTERS in Axarquia and Rincon de la Victoria are set for faster, greener journeys following the development of a major transport interchange. This ambitious project allows drivers to leave their vehicles at a spacious facility and board efficient shuttles directly into Malaga City centre. The scheme aims to reduce journey times while helping motorists avoid congested roads and low-emission zone fines.

The 53,512-square-metre site, located beside the Arroyo de Totalan and MA-24 motorway, provides immediate access to interurban buses and potential future metro links. Commuters in Alhaurin de la Torre will also benefit from reliable connections that replace lengthy car trips with public transport.

Planners hope the move will ease rush-hour traffic, freeing urban streets for pedestrians and cyclists.

Sustainable travel is becoming central to daily routines for thousands of workers and students.

Mallorca

Calvia unveils film trail

CALVIA is bringing its cinematic past into the spotlight with the rollout of a new initiative designed to highlight its role as a long-standing filming destination. The municipality has installed a series of information panels across key locations, marking the sites where films, series and major campaigns have been shot over the years.

Ten plaques have been placed in carefully selected spots, each offering insight into the productions linked to that setting. Visitors can scan QR codes to access deeper content, including behind-the-scenes details, historical context and anecdotes tied to specific shoots.

The project forms part of a broader push to position Calvia as an open-air film set, inviting both tourists and residents to experience the landscape through a cinematic lens.

From secluded coves to well-known beaches, the route connects locations that have doubled as everything from classic film backdrops to modern streaming settings.

Costa Blanca South Skyward growth

PASSENGER traffic at Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández Airport has maintained its strong upward momentum, with more than 1.6 million travellers passing through in March. This represents a 9.1 per cent increase compared with the same month last year.

The latest data highlights the airport’s expanding role as one of Spain’s key international gateways, particularly as the region moves into the peak summer travel season.

The growth reflects sustained demand from European markets, further strengthening the Costa Blanca as a major destination for tourism and second-home travel.

International traffic once again led the expansion, accounting for the vast majority of passengers. Over 1.4 million arrivals came from abroad, with the United Kingdom remaining the largest source market, followed by Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, and Belgium.

Almeria

Mojacar’s medieval festival

ONE HUNDRED Mojacar locals marched through the streets of Almeria’s capital city recently, to present the programme for the 2026 ‘Moors and Christians Festival’ in theatrical style.

The parade traversed the capital city streets, marching from the Provincial Palace to the Puerta Purchena, garnering attention from passers-by. The upcoming festival is set to celebrate the coexistence of religions. In honour of that sentiment, both the Moors and Christians were represented in the parade. Twenty-six people - 12 Moors, 12 Christians - were dressed in elaborately detailed costumes, offering a sneak peak of what can be expected from the festival itself. Musical groups also joined the parade, filling the capital’s streets with a festive spirit and jubilant cheer.

The procession concluded with the unveiling of the official 2026 poster, and words from both the mayor of Almeria and mayor of Mojacar, Francisco Garcia who described the event as “the most important celebration in the province of Almeria.”

Costa Blanca North Denia runs together

THE streets of Denia came alive on Saturday April 11 as the Circuit a Peu Marina Alta 2026 returned after a short Easter pause, bringing with it a palpable sense of anticipation and community spirit.

More than 2,000 runners took part, transforming the town into a vibrant hub of colour, movement and noise as athletes of all ages gathered for one of the most popular fixtures on the regional running calendar.

From the early afternoon, families, amateur runners and seasoned competitors filled the start area, with children’s races setting the tone before the headline event later in the evening.

There was a relaxed, almost festival-like mood: music playing, spectators spilling out from cafés, and the scent of the nearby sea drifting through the streets.

As the sun began to soften, the main race got underway. The route wound through Denia’s streets, offering runners the chance to chase personal bests while soaking up the atmosphere.

Feline affection

CATS might not show their affection with sloppy kisses and near-constant requests for tummy tickles. They prefer a subtler approach like meowing when you arrive home, brushing up against you or even bringing you little gifts.

The loose pieces of string, discarded hair-ties and half-chewed toys cats leave on your lap are all a token of their love.

Some cat-owners confuse this action, thinking their cats want to play. But in actuality, it’s feline instinct. Out in the wild, mother cats perform a similar gesture with their young, bringing them small prey. This is so they can hunt it, learning to fend for themselves.

Your pet cat is copying that behaviour: bringing you a beloved toy or scraps they’ve found as a way to teach you to prey. In essence, they’re treating you like part of the family.

Sometimes, especially in the case of outdoor cats, they’ll bring you actual prey like mice and birds. It makes for an unpleasant sight, but the cat shouldn’t be punished or scolded. What might feel like a gross inconvenience from a human’s perspective was a thoughtful attempt at connection from the cat.

Cats show their love through gift giving.

Credit: Shutterstock , NewAfrica

HouseSitMatch house-sitters

care for homes and pets

DEB and Simon love house-sitting for the pets and learning about new places

Many of our house-sitters, like Deb and Simon, love animals. They also love discovering new locations and are happy to look after your home and pets in exchange for free accommodation. It’s a win win! It’s essentially a fair exchange between trusted partners through a managed service like Housesitmatch.com where we check everyone for safety!

Whisker magic

CATS’ whiskers are highly sensitive and can help them navigate in the dark. That’s why they rarely run into or trip over things at night. They also use their whiskers to determine if they can fit through a small space. The bigger the cat, the longer the whiskers. Kittens can’t see at birth but their tiny whiskers are their best way of sensing the world around them.

HouseSitMatch pet-sitters offer their time and service in exchange for free accommodation. It allows the sitter to discover a new location from the comfort of your home. It’s like old-fashioned barter.

How it works

1. Register at HouseSitMatch. com as a homeowner

Our house-sitters love animals and they also like caring for homes.

2. Create your profile with photos of your home and pets

3. Review applications and video chat with potential house-sitters

4. Match with the perfect pet-

sitter and enjoy your holiday worry-free

Real savings, real peace of mind

Each house-sit benefits both the homeowner and the housesitter. Your pets receive one-onone attention at home, your property stays protected, and you avoid expensive kennel fees (and stress on your pet!).

For a small annual registration fee (and no per-sit fee), you can connect with verified house-sitters willing to provide free pet care and home security. Your pets deserve the comfort of their own home, and you deserve an affordable holiday.

Join today Register at HouseSitMatch. com and use code WELCOME50 for 50 pr cent off your first year.

Lamia Walker, Founder. Call: +44 (0)7772 142742 Rated Excellent on Trustpilot - 4.9/5

Paws, paths, and perks

REGULAR dog walking might feel like a simple daily chore, but it comes with a surprising list of perks for both pets and their humans.

One of the most underrated benefits for pets is naturally shorter nails. All that trotting along pavements and park paths helps to gently file them down, saving time on the nail clippers and the occasional wrestling match that follows.

There’s more to it than grooming, though. Regular walks help keep dogs fit, trim and mentally engaged. New smells, sights and sounds offer essential “enrichment,” helping to prevent boredom and reduce unwanted behaviours such as chewing or barking at home. A well-walked dog is often a calmer, happier companion.

Another advantage is improved digestive and urinary health. Walking helps stimulate the digestive tract, reducing

constipation, while regular opportunities to relieve themselves can lower urinary infection risk.

Owners benefit too. Those daily outings add easy exercise into the routine, lift mood, and can even help turn neighbours into familiar

Beyond health, daily outings strengthen the bond between dog and owner. A predictable walking routine builds trust, provides comfort and helps establish a sense of security for pets. Experts suggest aiming for around 30-minute walks, five times a week, adjusted to a dog’s age and breed. Keeping dogs on a lead in public ensures safety, while allowing regular sniff breaks supports mental stimulation.

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ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS IS ALCOHOL COSTING YOU MORE THAN MONEY? Drinking to excess not only affects your health it can spill over into every other aspect of your life - damaging everything that is important to you. English-speaking AA meetings are held throughout the Costa Blanca from Valencia City to Murcia. Anyone wishing to attend a meeting or discuss a possible drinking problem contact Costa Blanca North: 648 169 045 or Costa Blanca South: 625 912 078 or Costa Calida 679 385 105 All calls are treated in the strictest confidence. AA in German: 645 456 075; Spanish: 679 212 535; Flemish: 635 047 053; and Scandinavian: 659 779 222. www.aa-costablanca.org (93323)

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