The Italian textile machinery industry made a weak start to 2026. According to data released by ACIMIT, order intake for Italian textile machinery manufacturers fell by 5 percent in the first quarter of the year compared to the same period last year. While the slowdown in export markets negatively affected the sector’s overall outlook, a notable recovery was recorded in the domestic market. According to the figures announced, orders from foreign markets declined by 7 percent, whereas orders in the Italian domestic market increased by 21 percent. Industry representatives consider the recent movement in the domestic market, which had remained stagnant for a long period, as a positive development.
Quarterly Increase Recorded in Orders
Compared to the last quarter of 2025, total order intake increased by 18 percent. The orders index, based on 2021 figures, stood at 37.3 points for the January-March 2026 period. While the index reached 35.3 points in the domestic market, it climbed to 37.6 points in foreign markets. From a sectoral perspective, a more dynamic picture was observed particularly in weaving machinery and certain manufacturing segments. Nevertheless, it is stated that investment appetite across the sector still remains limited.
Order Backlog Provides 4.5 Months of Workload
The current order backlog is reported to provide manufacturers with approximately 4.5 months of workload, while global economic uncertainties and the slowdown in investment decisions continue to put pressure on the sector. It is considered that the economic stagnation in the European market, high financing costs and uncertainties in global trade are causing companies to act more cautiously regarding new investment decisions.
A Cautious Statement from ACIMIT
Commenting on the latest figures, Marco Salvadè stated that the first positive signals seen in the domestic market are important, but overall expectations still remain cautious. Salvadè noted that, in addition to uncertainties in international markets, the slow progress of public institutions is making investment planning more difficult for companies. He also stated that ACIMIT continues its promotional activities in strategic markets together with the Italian Trade Agency (ICE), adding that the sector is now focusing on ITMA 2027, which will be held in Hannover.
Attention Turns to ITMA 2027
Italian manufacturers expect ITMA 2027 to become an important platform where new investments in the sector will regain momentum. In particular, investments in sustainable production technologies, digitalisation and energy efficiency are expected to accelerate again during the exhibition period. Established in 1945, ACIMIT today represents approximately 300 Italian textile machinery manufacturers. The sector, which provides employment for around 12,500 people, has a production volume of approximately 1.9 billion euros, with 86 percent of total production being exported.
