Italy’s machine tool sector has kicked off 2025 with a notable uptick in orders, according to fresh data released by UCIMU-Sistemi per Produrre. The orders index, developed by the association’s Study & Business Culture Centre, rose by 8.5% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year, reaching a value of 84.5 (base year: 2021 = 100).
This growth was driven almost entirely by the Italian domestic market, which recorded an impressive 71.5% increase in order intake, reaching an index value of 94.5. Conversely, foreign demand declined by 18.2%, with the index falling to 74.4, reflecting ongoing international instability.
“The year has started on a positive note, especially in the home market,” said Riccardo Rosa, President of UCIMU. “After a challenging 2024, the strong rebound in domestic orders is a sign of cautious optimism—though international conditions remain volatile.”
Rosa attributed part of the domestic rebound to recent clarifications regarding Transition 5.0, a government-backed initiative supporting industrial modernization. Once businesses gained clarity on how to apply the measure, many moved forward with investments in digital and green manufacturing systems. This trend is also evident in the upcoming Lamiera 2025 trade show, set to open May 6 at FieraMilano Rho, which has sold out its exhibitor space.
Despite the momentum, Rosa pointed out that only 11% of the Transition 5.0 funding has been utilized so far, suggesting that the program still faces barriers to full adoption. He called on the government to simplify access to such incentives and urged immediate action on the long-delayed Industry 4.0 tax credit implementation.
On the international front, Rosa expressed concern over growing geopolitical tensions, especially with regard to shifting U.S. trade policy and the broader uncertainty caused by global conflicts and economic instability. These challenges have already impacted Italy’s machine tool exports, with the United States, Germany, China, France, and Turkey remaining the top markets.
In response, UCIMU is strengthening its support for Italian manufacturers exploring new and emerging markets, including India, Mexico, and South America. Initiatives such as the Oficina Italiana de Promoción México, Desk India (Mumbai), and Desk China (Beijing), along with ITC and IMT networks in India and Vietnam, aim to open doors for Italian firms looking to diversify their export base.
Rosa concluded by calling for a united European stance on trade and industrial strategy, noting: “We urge our government to be a strong voice in Brussels, advocating for a cohesive industrial policy and a constructive transatlantic dialogue to safeguard global trade and economic stability.”
