The Italian textile machinery sector is adapting to a shifting global landscape by doubling down on innovation and sustainable technology. At the ACIMIT General Assembly in Milan, industry leaders set out a clear strategic roadmap for navigating a challenging 2025 and positioning the sector for ITMA 2027 in Hanover. ACIMIT President Marco Salvadè confirmed that maintaining technological leadership remains the sector's top priority despite rising protectionism and geopolitical uncertainty.
2025 Performance: Production and Export Overview
Final 2025 figures, based on ISTAT data, reflect a year of transition for Italian manufacturers. Domestic production reached approximately €1.94 billion, marking a 9% decline from the prior year. Textile machinery exports contracted by 8%, totaling €1.675 billion, while domestic sales fell 14% to €266 million.
A 14% rise in imports helped sustain overall domestic consumption during this period. Local investment levels remained cautious throughout 2025, signaling that manufacturers are prioritizing strategic planning over short-term capital expenditure.
Key Export Markets and Leading Technology Categories
Asia remained the dominant destination for Italian textile machinery, accounting for 40% of all overseas sales — a value of €667 million. The European Union followed with a 24% share, while non-EU European nations contributed 11%.
Among technology categories, finishing and dyeing equipment led export revenues at 33%, followed by accessories at 20% and spinning solutions at 15%. India stood out as the fastest-growing individual market, with sales surging 28% to reach €176 million in 2025.
Innovation, Sustainability, and Workforce Development
To address global economic fragmentation, ACIMIT members are investing in highly customized, value-added solutions. Salvadè stressed that consistent industrial policies and digitalization incentives are essential for long-term sector resilience. Current innovation priorities include energy efficiency, reduced environmental footprint, and deeper automation in production processes.
The industry is also placing high priority on talent acquisition. ACIMIT has called for stronger links between manufacturers and educational institutions to attract engineering and technical professionals. Building this skills pipeline is seen as fundamental to sustaining the innovation pace the modern global market demands.
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Road to ITMA 2027 and Global Market Strategy
ACIMIT is coordinating closely with the Italian Trade Agency and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to strengthen global market access for its members. These efforts converge on ITMA 2027, scheduled for September in Hanover — the world's premier textile machinery exhibition. ACIMIT, founded in 1945, represents approximately 200 manufacturers and accounts for 85% of the sector's total turnover.
With roughly 86% of production exported to over 130 countries, the association is a cornerstone of Italy's manufacturing economy. The strategic roadmap presented at the General Assembly underscores the sector's confidence in its long-term competitiveness despite current market headwinds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ACIMIT and who does it represent?
ACIMIT, founded in 1945, is Italy's professional association for textile machinery manufacturers. It represents approximately 200 companies, accounts for 85% of the sector's total turnover, and serves markets in over 130 countries worldwide.
Which regions are the largest buyers of Italian textile machinery?
Asia leads all destinations with 40% of exports at €667 million, followed by the EU at 24%. India is the fastest-growing individual market, recording a 28% sales increase to €176 million in 2025.
What are the sector's main priorities ahead of ITMA 2027?
The sector is focused on energy-efficient and sustainable machinery, digitalization of production, attracting engineering talent through academic partnerships, and maximizing its presence at ITMA 2027 in Hanover, scheduled for September of that year.
