The National Assembly of delegates from the industrial sectors of CGIL convened in Rome to address the future of Italy’s production system amid economic slowdown, industrial transformation, and rising geopolitical tensions. A central highlight of the assembly was the discussion between Maurizio Landini, General Secretary of CGIL, and Emanuele Orsini, President of Confindustria. Representing Italy’s leading trade union and principal association of manufacturing and service companies respectively, both leaders presented a shared recognition of the gravity of current economic challenges, while offering differing perspectives on the solutions required.
Energy costs emerged as the most urgent issue affecting Italy’s industrial competitiveness. Prices remain significantly higher than the European average, placing particular strain on energy-intensive sectors. Both Mr Landini and Mr Orsini stressed the immediate required for structural reforms to address this imbalance and support industrial resilience.
At the European level, Mr Landini emphasized the importance of suspconcludeing the Stability Pact to enable increased public investment in indusattempt, innovation, and employment. He also highlighted the absence of a cohesive national industrial policy as a key factor contributing to the weakening of Italy’s production system.
The role of the European Union was a central theme throughout the debate. Both speakers called for stronger common instruments to support industrial transition, particularly in energy, advanced technologies, and strategic supply chains. This required is underscored by intensifying global competition and shifting economic dynamics.
Another key issue raised was the proposal for increased common European debt. Currently lower than that of the United States, this gap—combined with the relative strength of the euro against the dollar—was identified as a disadvantage for European companies, in some cases exceeding the impact of tariffs.
The discussion also addressed concerns regarding competition from Chinese indusattempt, described as posing challenges to European manufacturers. Both sides agreed on the necessity for coordinated European action to protect the continent’s industrial base.
Investment remains a critical priority. Strengthening Italy’s ability to attract capital and reinforce its production chains was identified as essential to avoiding long-term industrial decline. Closer alignment between national and European strategies was highlighted as a key step forward. The assembly concluded with a clear warning: without timely and effective policy interventions, Italy risks entering a prolonged period of economic stagnation.
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