In the fourth quarter of 2024, machine tool orders saw an 11.4% rise compared to the same period in 2023, according to the latest index from UCIMU-SISTEMI PER PRODURRE. The index reached an absolute value of 78.7 (with 2021 as the base year).
Domestic orders surged by 33.3%, yielding an absolute value of 58, while foreign orders experienced a decline of 6.5%, resulting in an index value of 83.6. On an annual basis, total orders remained down by 5.6% from 2023, with domestic orders decreasing by 3% and foreign orders falling by 7.5%.
Riccardo Rosa, president of UCIMU, remarked, “While the latest figures are encouraging, significant challenges remain. The overall order collection for 2024 is among the most disappointing in recent years, with only 2020 performing worse. Although foreign markets showed promise for part of the year, allowing us to mitigate some losses, the outlook remains concerning.”
Regarding the last quarter, Rosa noted, “The double-digit growth is positive and confirms a slight recovery from the previous quarter. However, ongoing weakness in domestic demand and a slowdown in foreign markets pose serious concerns.”
He added that various uncertainties in both Italy and abroad complicate the business landscape. With Trump’s return to the political stage, the implications for U.S. economic policy remain unclear. The U.S. is Italy’s primary export market, and the Italian manufacturing sector is well-positioned to meet the demand for high-quality production and automation systems.
Rosa also highlighted challenges in Europe, particularly Germany’s economic struggles, issues in the automotive sector, and the closure of critical markets like Russia. These factors are prompting companies to seek new international opportunities, such as UCIMU’s initiative “Oficina Italiana de Promoción Mexico,” aimed at boosting presence in high-potential markets.
Domestically, while there was some activity in the latter part of the year, it remains limited. Rosa cautioned that despite the improved numbers, they are measured against a notably low previous quarter. He expressed optimism that once new decrees are implemented to simplify processes for industry 5.0, domestic demand will strengthen.
Looking ahead to 2025, which will mark the end of current 4.0 and 5.0 measures, Rosa emphasized the need for a new industrial policy to support the digital transformation of Italian manufacturing. This includes encouraging investments in advanced production systems and ensuring the adoption of technologies like artificial intelligence to enhance competitiveness. He reiterated UCIMU’s readiness to engage with government authorities on these critical issues.
