Demographic and economic shifts in Romagna

The Romagna region of Italy is experiencing significant demographic and economic shifts.

In terms of business structure, female-led enterprises have seen a slight decline of 0.6%, totaling 14,845 active businesses, which accounts for 21.2% of the region’s total. While individual enterprises and partnerships have decreased, there has been a 1.9% increase in capital companies. Sectoral growth has been noted in administrative, professional, and technical services, alongside a slight rise in manufacturing, while commerce, agriculture, and hospitality have contracted.

Recent economic data from Confindustria Romagna indicates growth and increased internationalization. In 2025, the total turnover of associated companies rose by 4.5%, reaching approximately 25 billion euros. Export activities, representing 21% of total turnover, increased by 2.2%, driven primarily by medium and large-sized enterprises. To maintain competitiveness, there is an emphasis on digitalization, automation, and AI. Additionally, the Romagna Chamber of Commerce is funding the ‘TOAsia Export Training’ program to assist companies in Forlì-Cesena and Rimini in navigating Asia-Pacific markets.

Demographically, the foreign-born population in the provinces of Ravenna, Forlì-Cesena, and Rimini has nearly quadrupled over the last 20 years. As of January 1, 2025, there are 130,081 foreign residents. In Ravenna, foreign residents account for 12.3% of the population (47,961); in Forlì-Cesena, 11.3% (44,725); and in Rimini, 11.2% (38,395). Since 2003, these populations have grown by 299%, 271%, and 282%, respectively. This influx serves as a vital resource for demographic stability, as the natural balance of the local Italian population has been negative for several years. In Forlì-Cesena, the largest communities include residents from Romania, Albania, Morocco, and China.