# Italy R&D investment and innovation trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/italy-rd-investment-and-innovation-trends
> Updated: 2026-08-21T08:27:09.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2.

Italy is navigating structural changes and challenges regarding research and development (R&D) investment and innovation. Following disputes between companies and the Agenzia delle Entrate over tax credits, the country transitioned from a self-certification model to a preventive ministerial certification system. This new system, which utilizes third-party verification by accredited bodies, saw a record 6,577 certified projects in 2025.

Despite these administrative reforms and rising R&D spending—which reached €29.4 billion in 2023—Italy faces broader economic hurdles. While per capita R&D spending in Italy rose to 222 euros in 2025, it remains significantly lower than the EU average and countries like Germany. Consequently, concerns persist regarding the effectiveness of public spending and the stagnation of labor productivity, which has remained at levels seen 25 years ago.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-21: Italy prepares fiscal measures including tax relief and energy bonuses

Italy is planning various fiscal measures, including potential tax cuts on thirteenth-month salaries, a €14 billion energy incentive package, and new regulations for public employee meal vouchers.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-faces-innovation-challenges-despite-rising-rd-spending

### 2026-08-03: Italy shifts R&D tax credit system to ministerial certification

Italy replaces self‑declaration of R&D tax credits with ministerial certification, boosting verified projects to a record 6,577 in 2025 amid disputes over repayments and new EU AI and cybersecurity rules.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italy-shifts-rd-tax-credit-system-to-ministerial-certification

---
Cite as: Italy R&D investment and innovation trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/italy-rd-investment-and-innovation-trends