The Tourism Situation Report for the second quarter of 2025, presented by the Gran Canaria Chamber of Commerce and Excelcan, draws a disturbing conclusion: tourism in the Canary Islands maintains its central role in the economy, but is beginning to show signs of weakening in its ability to generate wealth in the medium term.
Despite the arrival of 4,1 million tourists between April and June—a figure that may seem positive at first glance—the figure represents a significant decrease compared to the first quarter of the year, reflecting the Canary Islands' strong seasonal dependence.
Less average spending per tourist
The report reveals that total spending reached €4.400 billion, just 3,5% more than in 2024, but this increase is explained exclusively by the higher volume of visitors. Average spending per tourist continues to decline, calling into question the archipelago's ability to attract more affluent visitors.
Foreign tourism in decline
Another worrying fact is the decline in international tourism, which remains the true driving force of the sector. The domestic market, which represents only 12,7% of the total, is unable to offset this loss, leaving the Canary Islands exposed to the volatility of European source markets.
Housing and transportation collapse
The breakdown of items clearly reflects the slowdown: Accommodation: a €960 million drop compared to the first quarter; National and international transportation: a €760 million decline; and catering: a €215 million loss in just three months.
The quarter-on-quarter comparison highlights the structural fragility of tourism in the Canary Islands, where fluctuations between high and low seasons prevent real stability.
Leisure is growing… but it is not enough
Associated sectors such as leisure (203 million, +19 million year-on-year) and food (684 million, +8,3%) have experienced slight growth, but these increases are still marginal when compared to the collapse of the fundamental pillars.
An economy at risk of overdependence
The report, far from confirming a solid trend, points to a growing risk of stagnation: the Canary Islands are increasingly dependent on the gross number of visitors, while their average spending and loyalty are suffering. The archipelago continues to attract millions of tourists, but they are spending less and less per person, weakening the sector's ability to sustain employment and investment.
In short, the data for the second quarter of 2025 reflect the other side of Canarian tourism: a giant with feet of clay that continues to drive the regional economy, but which shows clear signs of vulnerability to seasonality and the loss of quality of tourist spending.
