MAE Consulting – October Newsletter (Our First Edition)

MAE Consulting Newsletter – October 2025 Edition

Opening Note

As the long summer winds down, September brought plenty of important developments both globally and locally. From international conflicts and European policy shifts to housing measures, tourism milestones, and regional investments, there’s a lot that could affect life on the Costa del Sol. Here’s a concise roundup to keep you informed and prepared.

Global News

• Middle East Conflict Escalation
  Israel launched a major ground offensive in Gaza City, prompting widespread international concern. Speaking at the UN General Assembly, Spain’s King Felipe VI urged a halt to the “massacre,” condemning both Israeli military actions and Hamas terrorism. The crisis risks destabilising the wider region.

• War in Ukraine
  Fighting intensified through September, but Ukrainian officials say Russian offensives failed to achieve their objectives, with Moscow suffering heavy losses. NATO reiterated strong support for Ukraine, keeping the conflict firmly on Europe’s geopolitical radar.

EU News

• ECB Holds Rates
  The European Central Bank kept its main deposit rate steady at 2.0%. With eurozone inflation near target, the ECB sees no need for further cuts for now. This stability is welcome news for businesses and mortgage-holders across Europe.

Spain National News

• Economic Upgrade
  Spain’s economy grew 0.8% in Q2 and is forecast at 2.6% this year, outpacing most advanced economies. S&P upgraded Spain’s sovereign rating to A+ with a stable outlook, citing resilience and job creation.

• Tourist Rental Crackdown
  The government ordered 53,000 unlicensed holiday rentals delisted from platforms like Airbnb, including more than 8,000 in Málaga province. Authorities say this will free up long-term housing, though regional leaders argue it penalises the tourism sector.

• Catalan Amnesty Debate
  The government’s proposed amnesty for Catalan separatist leaders remains under review by the Constitutional Court. Supporters call it a step toward reconciliation, while opponents argue it undermines rule of law.

Andalucía Regional News

• Pet Tax Deductions
  From 2026, new pet owners in Andalucía can deduct 30% of vet bills (up to €100) from regional taxes. Adopted pets qualify for three years of deductions, while guide dogs and service animals receive lifetime coverage.

• Tourism Boom & New Routes
  Andalucía expects a record 37 million visitors in 2025, boosted by long-haul routes such as New York–Málaga. Investment is planned for Málaga Airport to handle rising passenger numbers.

• Water Supply Outlook
  Reservoirs are 54% full, far better than last year, though some provinces like Almería remain critically low. Thanks to spring rains and late-September storms, the Costa del Sol avoided summer water restrictions.

Málaga Province News

• Asian Hornet Alert
  Authorities confirmed the first sighting of the invasive Asian hornet in Alhaurín de la Torre. Emergency teams are working to eliminate nests to protect local ecosystems and bee populations. Residents are urged to report any sightings.

• Advanced Neurosurgery Hub
  Málaga’s Regional University Hospital opened a €2.7 million hybrid operating theatre with intraoperative MRI, making it one of Spain’s most advanced neurosurgical facilities.

• Wild Weather
  Early September brought gale-force winds and 3-metre waves, followed by a heatwave. Authorities warn such weather swings are becoming more common and are reassessing coastal protections.

Local Municipal News

• Marbella’s New District
  Marbella council approved plans for a 36.5-hectare development near La Cañada, featuring 1,330 homes (40% affordable), a new fairground, logistics hub, and extensive green space.

• Estepona Expands Playa del Cristo
  Estepona reclaimed 30,000 m² next to its most popular cove to create a public leisure zone with green areas and parking. This follows other major improvements like the Mirador del Carmen and coastal walkway.

• Mijas Celebrates Tourism Day
  Mijas Pueblo hosted World Tourism Day festivities with flamenco, paella, and international flags to honour its visitors and reinforce its global reputation as a welcoming destination.

Upcoming Events – October 2025

• Feria de San Pedro Alcántara (Marbella) – 14 to 19 October
  A major annual fair with concerts, parades, flamenco, and traditional celebrations. Expect busy streets and festivities across the week.

• Virgen del Rosario Fair (Fuengirola) – 6 October
  Fuengirola’s annual patron fair featuring parades, concerts, and cultural events.

• Marbella International Film Festival – 1–5 October
  Screenings and events showcasing independent films from around the world.

Private Sector & Business News

• Company Creation Surges
  Málaga now has nearly 60,000 registered companies, with close to 1,000 added this past year. Hospitality remains the province’s largest employer.

• Smoking Ban Debate
  Business associations in Málaga strongly oppose a proposed nationwide ban on smoking and vaping in outdoor hospitality spaces, warning of severe impacts on terraces and restaurants.

• Tourism & Hotels
  Hotel occupancy in the Costa del Sol hit 91% in September, up from last year. This reflects continued strength in the tourism sector well into the autumn season.

Closing Note

From housing crackdowns and infrastructure investments to cultural festivities and business growth, September’s developments point to a dynamic autumn on the Costa del Sol. We’ll continue tracking how these changes affect life and business here, and bring you the highlights in next month’s edition.