« Go back Record-breaking Export: Italy overtakes Japan as the world’s fourth-largest exporter
A historic milestone marks the beginning of 2026 for the national economy: Italy has officially overtaken Japan, becoming the world’s fourth-largest exporter. As reported by the international press and confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this achievement testifies to the extraordinary vitality of the Italian production fabric and its ability to establish itself in the most complex global markets.
For Italian companies looking to export, this data represents an unprecedented institutional "calling card." The "Made in Italy" brand is no longer just synonymous with style, but with industrial reliability and technological innovation. Leading sectors—ranging from precision mechanics and agrifood to chemicals and design—demonstrate a level of competitiveness that attracts investors and buyers from every continent.
For foreign companies and international partners, Italy confirms its status as the premier commercial hub in Europe. Commercial information regarding Italian companies, in both the B2B and B2C sectors, highlights a qualitative standard that guarantees supply chain security and added value to finished products.
In this context, international trade fairs in Italy have become essential appointments for foreign operators. These events are not merely showcases, but true networking platforms where international businesses can access the most relevant commercial news and forge direct agreements with leaders in Italian manufacturing. The invitation to international partners is clear: look to Italy as the primary strategic partner for developing new import-export channels.
Comment by Maurizio Carnevale
"Reaching the fourth position in the global ranking of
exporters, surpassing a historical powerhouse like Japan, is not an accidental
achievement but the result of our country system's structural resilience. This
primacy sends a powerful signal to foreign partners: Italy is now, more than
ever, the ideal partner for those seeking innovation and consistent quality.
For our companies, this is the time to be bold in international markets,
leveraging this new authority to consolidate market shares in B2B and to bring
B2C excellence to every corner of the world. Our mission is to continue
building commercial bridges that make access to Italian excellence increasingly
fluid and transparent for investors from every nation."