The Italian Chamber of Commerce in Korea (ITCCK) is delighted to share recent news highlighting Italy’s outstanding performance in international trade.

Italy has officially become the world’s fourth-largest exporter, overtaking Japan for the first time and marking a historic milestone for the country. According to the OECD, in the third quarter of 2025 Italian exports, measured in current and seasonally adjusted US dollars, surpassed those of Japan, confirming a trend already observed by the WTO in previous years.

This achievement reflects Italy’s strengthened role as a leading European exporting power, ranking second in Europe after Germany, with exports accounting for around 40% of national GDP. Despite ongoing fiscal challenges, Italy recorded a trade surplus of nearly €55 billion in 2024, underscoring the resilience of its export-driven economy.

Over the past decade, Italian exports have grown by an impressive 48%, reaching approximately €650 billion, making Italy the most dynamic exporter among G7 countries. This growth has outpaced that of major economies such as Germany, France, Japan, the United Kingdom, and even energy-exporting nations like the United States and Canada.

Italy’s success is driven not by large industrial conglomerates, but by a unique ecosystem of high-performing SMEs clustered in specialized industrial districts. These companies play a crucial role in global value chains, supplying key components to major European luxury and automotive brands, while benefiting from strong product diversification and wide geographical reach.

Continued investment in innovation and digitalization, supported by the “Industry 4.0” program, has further strengthened Italy’s manufacturing base, leading to rising productivity and competitiveness in global markets.

While external challenges remain—particularly rising trade tensions and potential tariff increases—Italy’s export model continues to demonstrate remarkable adaptability and strength.

For more details, the full original article is available at the following link: LINK.