The Romagna Chamber of Commerce, led by President Carlo Battistini, presented an optimistic outlook for the economy in the province of Forlì-Cesena at the end of 2023. Despite global economic uncertainties and challenges, the province's economic-productive system exhibits resilience and positive indicators. The President emphasized the importance of strategic investments and innovative approaches for companies to consolidate their positions in the market. The province's economic landscape, spanning Forlì-Cesena and Rimini, reflects a diverse and enterprising entrepreneurial reality. The aggregate turnover of joint-stock companies has notably increased from 32.7 billion EUR in 2013 to 45 billion EUR in 2022. The capitalization of Romagna companies has risen, accompanied by a reduction in liabilities, indicating a solid and positive long-term historical trend. While acknowledging a phase of economic complexity marked by a more pronounced slowdown in areas affected by the May flood, updated forecasts for 2023 show a positive trajectory in overall added value, although slightly lower than regional and national figures. President Battistini stressed the need to bridge the productivity gap and urged companies to focus on strategic investments in innovation, such as digital technologies, big data, AI, and energy sustainability.
Jamil Sadegholvaad, Mayor of the Municipality of Rimini, highlighted the stability of the provincial framework amid a global chiaroscuro, emphasizing the positive performance of the tourism sector.Investments in tourism infrastructure, trade fairs, and conferences remain crucial for sustained growth. The report outlined key economic sectors, noting a decrease in active businesses in sectors like manufacturing and construction. However, exports, particularly in shipbuilding and sporting goods, saw growth. The tourism sector experienced a slight decline in arrivals and presences, but the overall turnover increased, showcasing resilience. The economic support measures, such as the Redundancy Fund and initiatives combating poverty, demonstrated active engagement in addressing challenges. Inflation, measured by the ISTAT NIC index, exhibited a positive average trend change, with a notable decrease since the beginning of the year. In conclusion, the province of Forlì-Cesena is navigating the economic landscape with prudence and adaptability. The diversified production mix, emphasis on innovation, and sustained efforts in strategic sectors position the province for long-term stability and growth, despite the prevailing global uncertainties. Forecasts for 2024 indicate a continued positive trajectory in added value, supporting the notion of a resilient and forward-looking economic environment.
