Digital transformation towards Industry 4.0 in Spain: An analysis of the progress of Smart Factory implementation

Sonia García-Moreno
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Sonia García-Moreno: University of Castilla-La Mancha, Spain

Romanian Journal of Economics, 2025, vol. 60, issue 1(69), 42-65

Abstract: This study investigates Industry 4.0 implementation in Spain, focusing on strategies integrating IoT, AI, Big Data, and robotics. Analyses illustrate the digital maturity of Spanish industries, highlighting regional variability and the need for tailored support policies to enhance national competitiveness. Objective: This study explores the complexity and practical implementation of Industry 4.0 in Spain, elucidating national strategies and programs. It provides quantitative and qualitative data on Spain's advancements in Industry 4.0 technologies, with a regional case study demonstrating the concept's application. Method: A systematic search using databases such as DIALNET, SCOPUS, and Web of Science (WoS) focused on recent studies with keywords like "Industry 4.0," "smart factory," and "digital transformation." Relevant articles were identified through inclusion and exclusion criteria. Quantitative analysis used sources including the National Institute of Statistics (INE) of Spain, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), World Bank Open Data, and EUROSTAT. The Spanish public platform “HADA†analysed industries' digital maturity, assessing their incorporation of digital technologies in operations and strategy. Results: Spain's digital maturity map reveals regional disparities. Northern regions like País Vasco and Navarra exhibit "Dynamic" and "Leader" levels due to advanced Industry 4.0 integration and robust infrastructure. Castilla-La Mancha, Extremadura, and Andalucía show "Competent" levels, indicating significant digitalization efforts but room for optimization. Higher R&D investment correlates with higher digital maturity. Implementation issues include varying levels of data automation, integration with suppliers and customers, and sector-specific challenges. Regions with lower maturity need tailored support policies to address these challenges, increase R&D investment, improve infrastructure, and foster collaboration. Castilla-La Mancha has potential to advance with adequate support, demonstrating the importance of customized strategies for effective digital transformation.Originality:This study is original, providing an overview of the state of Spain in implementing the complex concept of Industry 4.0.

Keywords: Industry 4.0; smart factories; digital transformation; technological enablers (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O33 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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