Italian maritime and machinery sectors drive economic growth

The Italian maritime economy has reached a value of 224.9 billion euros, representing 11.4% of Italy's GDP, according to Mario Zanetti, president of Confitarma. Speaking at the 125th anniversary of the Italian Shipowners Confederation, Zanetti noted that the sector provides a direct value added of 78.9 billion euros. He highlighted that cruise activities alone generated 18.1 billion euros in 2024, supporting approximately 113,000 jobs.

Zanetti emphasized the strategic importance of maritime freedom for Italy's export-oriented economy, citing recent global instabilities—including tensions in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz—as threats to logistics and energy security.

Separately, Alessandro Terzulli, Chief Economist of Sace, identified machine tools as a leading sector for Italian exports to Latin America. This sector, alongside investments in electricity, agriculture, and transport, remains a primary driver of trade between Italy and the Latin American region.