Lazio and Sicily report strong economic growth in exports and craftsmanship

Economic data indicates strong growth in the Italian regions of Lazio and Sicily. In Lazio, the economy is expanding at roughly twice the national average. This growth is driven by a 9.7% increase in exports, particularly within the pharmaceutical sector, and a robust tourism industry that saw nearly 11 million arrivals in the first five months of 2026, generating an estimated 15 billion euros. Regional President Francesco Rocca and Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri attribute this success to the ‘Jubilee method,’ a collaborative approach between national, regional, and municipal governments that facilitated the timely completion of PNRR-funded projects.

However, challenges remain in Lazio, specifically regarding the automotive industry in Cassino, where production has reached a fifty-year low. Additionally, business leaders have noted concerns regarding high energy costs and international geopolitical uncertainty.

In Sicily, the artisanal sector shows positive momentum. Reports from Unioncamere and InfoCamere indicate a net gain of 211 artisanal businesses in the second quarter of 2026, with Palermo leading the regional growth. Regional Assessor Edy Tamajo stated that the administration is supporting this sector through specific calls for tenders and investments to foster innovation and competitiveness.