Industrial districts, the Italian brand and laboratories: relaunching a successful scheme

The conference of the series “Italy’s current affairs” entitled “Industrial districts, the Italian brand and laboratories: relaunching a successful scheme” was held in Milan on January 30th. During the meeting it was once again underlined how industrial districts – strategic component of the Italian economy – are undergoing a delicate evolution which requires careful monitoring. In a global scenario where rapidly growing economies such as India and China are thriving, the competitiveness of Italian industrial districts is based on relaunching internationalization, on rethinking production and organizational processes, as well as increasing investments in R&D. The discussion also focused on the government’s role and the new aspects contained in the 2006 Budget concerning industrial districts, and the expectations of the Study Commission which is being appointed. A more effective industrial policy in this sector is also required; along with a stronger role of banks which are called upon to create new instruments to assist and sustain the relaunch of a model which proved successful in the past, and now needs to be adapted to the changes in the global economy.