Italy’s Manufacturing Triumph: Record Production and Global Expansion in 2023

In 2023, Italy’s manufacturing sector for machine tools, robots, and automation systems celebrated another year of success, achieving a new production peak and anticipating continued growth in 2024.

Barbara Colombo, president of UCIMU-SISTEMI PER PRODURRE, the Italian association of machine tools, robots, and automation systems manufacturers, shared these highlights during the annual year-end press conference.

According to preliminary data from UCIMU-SISTEMI PER PRODURRE’s Studies Department & Business Culture, production in 2023 reached €7,560 million, marking a 3.8% increase from the previous year.

This growth was primarily driven by robust export performance, which increased by 10.3% to €3,825 million, pushing the export-to-production ratio to 50.6%.

On the international front, data from the Italian National Statistics Institute (ISTAT) showed key export markets for Italian machinery, including the United States, Germany, China, France, and Poland, all experiencing positive growth trends.

However, domestic market deliveries declined slightly to €3,735 million, reflecting a 2% decrease from 2022, influenced by a minor dip in consumption.

Looking ahead to 2024, Italian manufacturers anticipate a continuation of this positive trajectory, with production expected to reach €7,595 million, a 0.5% increase from 2023. This growth will be driven by further export expansion, projected at €4,070 million, reflecting a 6.4% increase.

Domestic market deliveries are forecasted to decrease to €3,525 million (-5.6%), aligning with reduced domestic consumption expected to reach €5,780 million (-5.6%). Imports are also anticipated to decline by 5.5% to €2,255 million.

Barbara Colombo emphasized the resilience of Italian manufacturers amidst global economic challenges, highlighting their ability to adapt to dynamic market demands. She also underscored the importance of fostering international cooperation, particularly with key partners like Germany, to strengthen industrial ties and drive mutual growth.

Furthermore, UCIMU is actively supporting internationalization efforts through initiatives like the ITC network in India and the newly established IMT network in Vietnam, aimed at facilitating market penetration in these regions.

While acknowledging challenges such as reduced investment willingness in Italy, Colombo praised government efforts to support the manufacturing sector, particularly through initiatives like the Transition Plan 5.0 and measures to enhance the Industry 4.0 framework.

In conclusion, Colombo expressed optimism for the future of Italy’s manufacturing industry, emphasizing the sector’s resilience, adaptability, and commitment to driving innovation and growth both domestically and internationally.

Original source www.afm.e