The Economy of Catalonia

ands and a declining proportion of sales to the Spanish market, the
negative consequences of independence would not be particularly serious
or long-lasting.
Regarding the survey of the Association of Economists, the majority feel
that investments by companies from the rest of Spain would fall. On the
other hand, investments by Catalan companies and foreign multinationals
would either remain steady or actually increase.
Final conclusion. Taken together, the different contributions express a
certainty that an independent Catalonia would be economically viable.
There is also a broad consensus that becoming an independent State
would bring advantages and greater welfare for Catalonia.
Nevertheless, there are also question marks. The consequences of independence
for both Catalonia and Spain, especially in the short term,
would depend heavily on how several essential issues are resolved. These
include the referendum or consultation, the relationship with the European
Union, the currency and the sharing out of assets and debt. To
minimise the possible adverse consequences both for Catalonia and for
Spain, it is of key importance that the process takes place in a peaceful,
democratic, negotiated way and with the aim of staying in the EU. The
period of uncertainty must be kept short, settling the matter of consulting
the citizens of Catalonia the sooner the better. Constructive dialogue,
negotiation and agreement, even to achieve independence, are
essential to protect fully the interests of all sides.
Conclusions: economic certainties and political question marks 229