Italy’s Industry and Unions Call for EU Action

The Secretary of CGIL, Italy’s main trade union, Maurizio Landini, and the President of Confindustria, Emanuele Orsini, discuss the future of Italian industry.

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On April 23, the National Assembly of delegates from the industrial sectors of the Italian General Confederation of Labour (CGIL), which is Italy’s largest trade union, took place in Rome. The gathering was centered around the future of the country’s industrial landscape, especially in light of the economic slowdown, ongoing industrial changes, and rising international tensions.

A standout moment from the assembly was the conversation between Maurizio Landini, the General Secretary of CGIL, and Emanuele Orsini, the President of Confindustria, the main association representing Italy’s manufacturing and service sectors. While both leaders acknowledged the gravity of the current economic situation, they had different opinions on the best ways to tackle it.

Energy costs came up as a major concern for Italy’s industrial sector once again. Prices are still above the European average, which is putting a lot of strain on the competitiveness of manufacturing companies, especially those in energy-heavy industries. Both leaders stressed the urgent need for structural reforms, cautioning that any further delays are simply not an option.

On a broader economic scale, Maurizio Landini pointed out that suspending the Stability and Growth Pact should be a top priority. He believes this would allow for more public investment in industry, innovation, and job creation. This perspective is part of a larger critique regarding the lack of a clear national industrial strategy, which many see as a significant factor undermining Italy’s production capabilities.

The discussion also touched on the European Union's role, with participants agreeing that it needs to strengthen shared tools to aid in the industrial transition. Key focus areas include energy, advanced technologies, and strategic supply chains, especially as global competition heats up.

Both Landini and Orsini emphasized the importance of Europe exploring new avenues for common debt, pointing out that current levels are still lagging behind those in the United States. They also noted that the euro's strength against the dollar poses a challenge for European companies, potentially affecting them more than tariffs do.

The conversation also turned to China, with worries about what was termed unfair competition impacting European businesses. Participants made it clear that Europe needs to take decisive action to protect its industrial base.

Investment was another key topic. Italy's capacity to draw in capital and strengthen its industrial value chains was highlighted as crucial to preventing a slow decline in manufacturing. In this light, the need for better alignment between national and European policies was strongly emphasized.

Overall, the discussion painted a rather cautious picture for the Italian economy, with worries that, without prompt and effective public and industrial strategies, the country could face a long stretch of stagnation.