China’s expanding role in Spain’s port infrastructure is drawing growing scrutiny from European policymakers and security experts, particularly over a planned industrial facility by Chinese automaker SAIC near the strategically important Ferrol naval base in northwestern Spain.
According to a report by Directus, concerns have intensified as Beijing increases investments in Spanish logistics and maritime assets. The spotlight is currently on SAIC’s proposed €200 million manufacturing complex near the Port of Ferrol, a key Spanish naval hub that hosts the Spanish Navy’s headquarters in the region and facilities operated by state-owned shipbuilder Navantia. The area is also considered significant for NATO operations in the Atlantic.
The project has raised questions because one of the planned industrial sites would be located close to access routes used by Spanish military vessels, including the Navy’s F-100 frigates. Despite alternative locations reportedly being considered, SAIC selected Ferrol for its first industrial investment in Europe. The project received support from regional authorities, with Galicia President Alfonso Rueda confirming the investment after a visit to China and highlighting cooperation between Madrid and Beijing.
While local officials view the investment as an opportunity to boost employment and industrial development, security analysts argue that the location’s military importance requires greater scrutiny. Alberto Camarero Orive, a port security and logistics expert at Madrid’s Polytechnic University, described Ferrol as one of Spain’s most sensitive strategic zones due to its naval infrastructure and NATO links. He warned that critical port facilities could become vulnerable during periods of geopolitical tension or hybrid warfare.
Reports indicate that SAIC is preparing to send a logistics vessel to assess the port’s infrastructure in July. Experts have called for stronger safeguards, particularly when investments involve state-backed Chinese companies, to prevent foreign influence over critical infrastructure.
The concerns are amplified by China’s existing presence in Spain’s maritime sector. Chinese shipping group COSCO strengthened its foothold in 2017 through the acquisition of a 51% stake in container terminal operator Noatum and has since expanded operations to Tarragona.
In response to similar concerns across Europe, the European Commission is developing new guidelines under its EU Ports Strategy aimed at helping member states evaluate the influence of third countries in port operations. EU transport ministers recently endorsed the initiative, stressing the importance of preventing excessive foreign ownership or control of strategically important port infrastructure across the bloc.