The signing of the Host Country Agreement with the Spanish Government allows the ADB to expand its operations, grow its team, and strengthen Valencia as one of Europe’s top innovation hubs.
Valencia, December 4, 2025 – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has now completed its full establishment in Valencia. On Tuesday, the multilateral institution signed the long-awaited Host Country Agreement with the Government of Spain. This agreement provides the legal framework the ADB needs to expand its local operations and secure a long-term presence in the city. The signing ceremony took place at The Terminal Hub and marks a major milestone for Valencia’s economic growth. It also strengthens the city’s position as a preferred destination for international organisations and high-value investment.
An agreement that accelerates foreign investment in Valencia
The new legal status will enable the ADB to grow its operational capacity in the city. It will also act as a strong driver for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI).
The arrival of a leading development institution — representing 68 member countries — creates a magnet effect for companies, investors and global delegations seeking innovative and stable environments. During the event, the ADB delegation highlighted Valencia’s potential and described the city as “the Silicon Valley of Europe.” This label reflects Valencia’s high density of startups and its dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. For international investors, it positions the city as a hub of talent, innovation, connectivity and quality of life.
Valencia becomes a strategic hub for the ADB
After signing the agreement, the ADB is speeding up its installation process. The institution is already searching for a permanent headquarters in the La Marina district, one of the Mediterranean’s key innovation areas. This move will create more opportunities for cooperation between the Bank and Valencia’s business community. It will also support collaborative projects, knowledge exchange and new investment pathways. Although hiring numbers are not yet public, the ADB plans to start recruitment in 2026. This will bring highly skilled jobs to the city and connect Valencia to the Bank’s global talent network.
A milestone that opens the door to more global institutions
The Host Country Agreement was the last requirement pending since Valencia’s Mayor, María José Catalá, announced the ADB’s arrival in January 2024. Until now, the Bank had been operating through temporary arrangements supported by UNICC and La Harinera. These mechanisms allowed a local presence but limited long-term growth. The ADB’s full establishment also sets a strong precedent for other international organisations. One of them is the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which is still awaiting a similar agreement to formalise its office in the city. Each new institution choosing Valencia raises the city’s global visibility and reinforces its role as a growing centre for economic and financial diplomacy.
A unique opportunity for Valencia in the global economy
Founded in 1966 and based in Manila, the Asian Development Bank plays a central role in financing sustainable development, infrastructure and environmental projects across Asia and the Pacific.
Its decision to operate from Valencia sends a clear signal of confidence in the city’s long-term strategy. It also validates the strength of Valencia’s innovation ecosystem and opens the door to more investment, new alliances and global opportunities.
