The analysis by Assocomaplast of the ISTAT figures for Italian foreign trade in the first quarter of this year shows that exports are up by almost nine percentage points compared to January-March 2013.Extruders and blow moulding machines, to name just two of the most significant categories, showed especially strong growth.
Contributing to this general rise in exports was the double-digit growth in sales to some key countries, first and foremost among which is China.
Other noteworthy positive changes were those for sales of Italian technology to destinations such as the Czech Republic, Mexico, the United States, Russia, and Turkey.
Running counter to this positive trend, exports toward Brazil were down, while sales to India performed below average: +4%.
Imports, meanwhile, continued weak – though to a lesser extent than in the previous months – reflecting a domestic Italian market that still hasn't found its feet.
