World

Trump’s trade halt threat raises concerns for the Spanish footwear industry

Mar 9, 2026 Spain

Amid heightened international tensions, the Spanish Footwear Industry Federation (FICE) has expressed concern following Trump’s threat to halt trade with Spain over military base access

In a statement, FICE noted that the United States is the leading non-EU market for Spanish footwear, as well as being a key partner for numerous SMEs and brands that generate employment across Spain’s main production areas.

The federation is concerned that this uncertainty could immediately impact the value chain, affecting areas such as recruitment, collection planning, production, logistics, financing and distribution. FICE has joined other major Spanish business chambers (CEOE, CEPYME and ATA) in calling for de-escalation, dialogue and institutional coordination within the EU framework.

“We call for prudence and institutional solutions. Trade must be based on clear and predictable rules. To our customers and distributors in the United States: Spain is a reliable supplier, so let us maintain normal operations while the institutions work to resolve the situation”, the statement reads.

Tensions have arisen following a diplomatic dispute between Washington and Madrid regarding the use of Spanish military bases for US operations in the Middle East. The Spanish government denied authorising such use, contradicting statements from the White House. In response, US President Donald Trump threatened to halt trade with Spain.

FICE will continue to monitor the situation closely, coordinating with business organisations and the relevant institutions to minimise the impact on companies in the sector.

Image Credits: Chris Boland on Unsplash

Spain United States Footwear International Trade Organisations Trump tariffs