| The Valencia region's five ports are among the | | | | As recently as a decade ago, Barcelona had a port |
| important in Spain and are run jointly by the central | | | | that was four times the size of Valencia.Valencia's |
| and regional governments, with private sector | | | | extraordinary recent growth is down to two factors. |
| involvement in their management. | | | | First, the port has been successful in catering to the |
| The Port of Valencia serves as Madrid's natural port | | | | needs of the region's small-and medium-sized |
| and channels twenty per cent of all Spanish exports, | | | | businesses. There are thousands of small businesses |
| making it the largest container port in the country. | | | | and they add up to a critical mass that is important |
| Logistical activity zones have been established | | | | to the shipping industry.Second, the relationship |
| nearby, a facility that the Port of Barcelona, for | | | | between Madrid and Valencia has improved. |
| example, lacks. | | | | Valencia exports, Madrid imports, and together they |
| Ports are no longer places to pass through, as the | | | | complement each other so that the port is very |
| merchandise stays and has value added even in | | | | efficient for ships, since they deliver and pick up |
| these zones. As a reward to companies in the port | | | | goods there. |
| that offer consistent quality to customers, it extends | | | | Cruises from Valencia are also available as the port is |
| the prestigious quality guarantee "Marca de | | | | now able to accommodate large cruise ships. |
| Garantía." To date, over 100 companies have | | | | Pullmantur Cruises has just announced two and five |
| received this award in recognition of the quality of | | | | night all inclusive cruise itineraries starting from April |
| service that they offer. | | | | 2009. |