Spanish people look forward to the implementation of the Senqilin project

On January 19, hundreds of residents in the Spanish town of As Pontes took to the streets in a protest, urging the government to swiftly formulate industrial plans and accelerate the implementation of factory projects.

Since the closure of the town's largest thermal power plant at the end of 2023, As Pontes has faced severe economic challenges. The shutdown resulted in widespread unemployment, reduced incomes, and mounting pressure on residents. New industrial projects are urgently needed to address the employment crisis and revive the local economy. Protesters voiced their demands with slogans, expressing their strong desire for economic recovery.

Unions Criticize Slow Progress of Industrial Projects

Local labor unions supported the protest, criticizing the slow progress of several industrial projects announced in recent years. Among them, one of the most anticipated is the tire manufacturing project announced by Sailun in 2021.

Originally scheduled to commence production in 2024, the Sailun tire factory project has faced numerous delays. Although the project passed environmental impact assessments as early as 2022, the approval for construction permits has been stuck in administrative processes, leaving the project in limbo.

Project Changes Spark Concerns

According to Tire World Network, Sailun announced in May 2024 that the funds initially allocated for the Spanish project would be redirected to a project in Morocco, further raising concerns about the project's future. In its statement, the company explained that due to significant uncertainties in obtaining construction permits for the Spanish project, it had adopted a cautious approach, refraining from commencing construction or utilizing the allocated funds.

Industry experts suggest that while the Spanish project has made progress in environmental and technical preparations, the delays in administrative approvals have undermined investor confidence and influenced corporate decision-making. On the other hand, Morocco has emerged as an attractive destination for international companies due to its strategic location, policy support, and market potential.

Residents Call for Concrete Solutions

The potential shelving of the Sailun project has left residents of As Pontes deeply concerned. They believe that if the government and company could expedite the resolution of approval issues, the project would generate significant employment opportunities and contribute to regional economic development. Citizens are also calling on the government to enhance coordination with companies to ensure the timely implementation of industrial projects, bringing tangible economic improvements to the area.

As Pontes is currently navigating a difficult transitional period, and the future of the Sailun tire project remains a focal point for public attention. For local residents, this project is more than just an investment plan—it represents a critical step toward rekindling hope for economic revitalization.