Spanish unemployment increased in July, reversing expectations for a decline, but the total number of jobseekers remained at the lowest level for the month since 2007, according to the Labour Ministry.
The number of people registered as unemployed rose by 19,517 from June, contrary to forecasts that had pointed to a reduction of 18,400.
Even with the monthly increase, registered unemployment stood at 2.31 million in July, the lowest July reading since 2007. Compared with a year earlier, the total fell by 93,107, or 3.87 percent.
Spanish unemployment by sector
Ministry data showed higher joblessness in several industries. The service sector recorded an increase of 8,221 unemployed, while construction rose by 2,433.
Industry added 473 jobseekers and agriculture increased by 122.
Youth unemployment improved. Among people under 25, the number of registered unemployed fell by 238 from June to 159,562, which the ministry said is the lowest figure in the historical series.
The Labour Ministry also tracks employment trends in regions affected by events such as wildfires in France and Spain, which can influence seasonal job patterns.
Further information on overall employment trends can be found via the Spanish Ministry of Labour and Social Economy.