Its jurisdiction constitutes the main core of the unofficial Barcelona metropolitan area, with a population over 5 million.

The AMB aims to promote economic activity, employment and entrepreneurship in the areas of industry, trade, services and tourism resources.

Social cohesion is one of the objectives of the creation of the AMB and is the principle by which all policies concerning urban planning, transport, environment, infrastructures and assistance to metropolitan municipalities are defined.

To fulfil this aim, the powers of the AMB also include the following: The Àrea Metropolitana de Barcelona is set on the central Catalan Coast and around the capital.

Its responsibilities include the appointment and dismissal of the AMB presidency; the approval of the Metropolitan Action Plan, which includes projects and services developed by the AMB during the term; the approval of laws and regulations, as well as the establishment of the metropolitan services fees.