The Spanish government has signed a significant agreement with the Ceuta Chamber of Commerce to mobilise 10 million euros in direct aid aimed at revitalising the retail sector in Ceuta, a Spanish autonomous city located on the northern coast of Africa. The deal was formalised by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Enterprise through the Secretary of State for Trade, and is part of the measures outlined in Royal Decree-Law 22/2026.
Objectives of the aid
The primary goal of this funding is to stimulate local consumption, support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and self-employed individuals in Ceuta, modernise retail establishments, expand sales channels, and facilitate generational change in businesses as part of the broader economic revitalisation of the region.
Vouchers and discounts to encourage local shopping
The first tranche of aid, amounting to 5 million euros, will be managed by the Chamber of Commerce and is designed to stimulate consumer spending and enhance competitive pricing. Key initiatives include:
- BuyBono programme: This initiative offers subsidised discounts in participating shops, allowing consumers to pay only 75% of the cost for purchases up to 300 euros, with the remaining 25% covered by public funding.
- Commercial Discounts Programme: This scheme provides discounts applied at the cash register, co-financed 50% by the programme and the businesses, with consumers paying a maximum of 85% of the total cost.
- Local consumption promotion campaign: This includes actions aimed at attracting shoppers from the nearby Campo de Gibraltar and Andalucía through the 'Ceuta Destino' programme.
The first BuyBono campaign is set to launch on Black Friday, followed by another for Christmas and a third in spring. The initiative will also fund ongoing commercial activities in shopping areas, including public events, parades, fairs, and a dedicated Commerce Week.
Modernisation and digitalisation of commerce
Businesses will have access to direct aid averaging 6,000 euros per project to upgrade IT equipment, improve storefronts, and implement security systems, energy-efficient lighting, or climate control. A total of 520,000 euros will be allocated to support digitalisation and the opening of new markets, including the development of a common commercial platform for promotions and loyalty, e-commerce advisory services, and cybersecurity support for small retailers.
To promote entrepreneurship and ensure the continuity of viable businesses, 150,000 euros will be made available in direct aid for new ventures and generational transitions. Grants of up to 10,000 euros will be provided to cover transfer costs and prevent business closures due to retirement.
International promotion and investment attraction
The initiative also includes 1.13 million euros for external promotion and investment attraction, positioning Ceuta as a shopping and investment destination. Additionally, ICEX, the Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade, will offer personalised support to Ceuta-based companies involved in export activities through the Ceuta Export Plan.
Monitoring and evaluation of the aid
The agreement outlines mechanisms for managing, monitoring, and justifying the aid to ensure proper execution, evaluation, and transparency in the use of funds. A Monitoring Committee will be established, along with separate accounts, independent audits, and quarterly reports to oversee the initiative.
