"In 2023, we have left behind the problems of component delays," says Ucima President Riccardo Cavanna, "and the turnovers of our companies have thus been able to devote themselves exclusively to taking orders and delivering them, winning this new record result. However, orders, especially in recent months, have been declining compared to 2022, which probably foreshadows an adjustment during 2024. On the domestic front, that -14% weighs: The Italian market has suffered from the inflationary crisis and the lack of certainty on the Industry 4.0 issue. The outlet sector and our industry need certainty and a new plan that supports both demand and supply. In this sense, RePowerEU's 6.3 billion earmarked for the Industry 5.0 plan is very good news, but we want to fully understand how the funds will be allocated and under what rules. To date, on capital goods incentives that facilitate the green transition, there is nothing and we are waiting for answers from the government in this regard."
In the world, the leadership position continues, given the export figures:
"What I would like to emphasize most is the fact that all over the world food, beverage, pharma, tissue, and cosmetics companies continue to demand technologies and solutions made in Italy, thanks to the quality, reliability, and innovation that we know how to guarantee. Speaking of innovation," the president concludes, "some of our companies have already implemented artificial intelligence solutions on their machines: This is the challenge of the coming years and UCIMA is ready to play its part in standing by companies to help them identify the best opportunities for development and internationalization.
And speaking of packaging regulation, the European Parliament's latest vote goes in the desired direction...
"Common sense has prevailed," Cavanna comments. "However, we remain waiting for the next steps, because the path is not yet finished. UCIMA has always been at the forefront in defending the Italian way, a model that has made us a leader in our ability to recycle waste. We will continue to work, also together with the other associations in the supply chain, to defend a system that brings both environmental and economic benefits."
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