Positive numbers in the plastics and rubber machinery sector. Let's see them in detail

by Marco Arezio

The Italian industry of machinery for plastic and rubber processing recorded an extraordinary turnover of 4.8 billion euros in the previous period, thus setting a record.

This success is largely due to a 10.8% increase in exports, bringing foreign sales to 3.59 billion euros.

Despite the difficulties caused by the Covid pandemic and a challenging macroeconomic environment, the year saw a growth of 2.8% compared to 2022. However, the domestic market showed a contraction of 7.5%, with sales reaching 2.33 billion euros.

Massimo Margaglione, President of Amaplast, expressed great satisfaction with these results, emphasizing the importance of the plastics and rubber machinery sector as a cornerstone of Made in Italy globally. This enthusiasm is also supported by the success of the Plast fair, confirming the solidity of this sector.

As for future prospects, 2024 is shaping up to be more uncertain due to various factors, such as geopolitical tensions, rising interest rates, and general instability, which could negatively affect the sector's performance. After overcoming supply chain issues, a phase of adjustment is anticipated with possible short and medium-term difficulties.

Taking a closer look at the different market segments, the past year saw double-digit growth in almost all categories of machinery, except for extruders, which nevertheless showed an increase of 7%.

According to Amaplast, sectors such as injection presses and thermoformers have regained ground after a less promising start to the year.

Exports, which account for two-thirds of production, have shown a positive trend in all geographical areas, with variations ranging from +6.1% in Europe to +20% in the Americas and +8.1% in Asia. Particularly noteworthy were the results in the Middle East and Africa, with increases of 50.3% and 36% respectively in North Africa and 31% in sub-Saharan destinations.

Margaglione expressed concern about the slowdown already felt at the end of the year and the current unfavorable situation but remains optimistic about the future. Optimism is based on the ability of Italian small and medium-sized enterprises to innovate and overcome challenges, thanks to a strong entrepreneurial spirit and dynamic research and development.

The positive reception of the Industry 5.0 plan, despite uncertainties regarding its implementation, highlights the need for timely support measures for the domestic market, according to the president of Amaplast. This scenario underscores the resilience and adaptability of Italian companies in the face of challenges, maintaining cautious optimism for the future.

Source: Polimerica