E-commerce in Spain has climbed 71.4 percent in 2007, with a turnover of EUR 4.7 billion, according to a study by the National Observatory for Telecommunication and Information Society.

The growth is attributable to the sharp increase in the number of online shoppers, which surpassed 8 million in 2007. Of the overall internet user base, the number of online shoppers aged 15 and over increased from 27.3 percent to nearly 40 percent in December 2007. Throughout the year, each online shopper made nearly 4.9 purchases on average, reaching almost EUR 595.

More than 93.7 percent of those who made purchases over the internet were satisfied with their buying experience. The study also shows that online shoppers make more intensive use of the internet. Two-thirds access the network daily, versus 42.1 percent of non-buyers, and 77 percent of online shoppers use an ADSL connection, versus 62 percent of non-buyers. Clear information about consumer rights (78%), the sales contract (72.6%) or the product to be acquired and expenses related to the purchase (75%) are significant aspects for individuals who made online purchases during 2007. Other important aspects for them are the clear communication of security mechanisms (76.4%), or if the company is fully identified (77.3%).

Around 84.3 percent of the overall Spanish online shoppers make their online purchases from home, and the majority (54%) prefer to use their bank card as payment method.

The tourism and leisure sectors still lead the e-commerce market, with transport tickets, concert tickets and booking accommodation being the most purchased items via the internet, followed by electronics products, clothes and accessories, books, DVD, music or video games.