The Italian government has recently intensified its efforts to support the fashion industry, which is facing significant economic challenges. On March 13, 2025, a meeting in Milan brought together key fashion organizations, including Camera della Moda (CNMI) and Altagamma, as well as representatives from major luxury brands such as Tod’s, Dolce & Gabbana, LVMH, Zegna, OTB, and Ferragamo. The Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy, Adolfo Urso, presented the "Moda Italia" plan, aimed at strengthening the supply chain and accelerating the sector’s internationalization, particularly in response to trade tensions with the United States.
This plan will be detailed today to associations representing the textile and apparel supply chain and on March 24 during a government-led roundtable discussion with fashion industry leaders. Discussions have focused on investment support, supply chain consolidation, and solutions to address liquidity crises through guarantee and renewable funds. In February, Minister Urso announced a 250-million-euro funding package for businesses, including 200 million euros for medium and small-scale development contracts, 15 million for ecological and digital transition, and 30.5 million to promote sustainability in the sector.
Italy’s fashion industry, primarily composed of SMEs and small workshops, experienced a 5.3% decline in revenue in 2024, reaching 96 billion euros. Over the past decade, 12,000 companies and 28,000 jobs have been lost.
The past two years have been particularly challenging, with a 20-25% decline in production volumes due to the slowdown in the luxury market. Current trade tensions could further worsen the situation. Meanwhile, at the Pitti Uomo 2025 trade show in Florence, which hosted over 770 brands, the government announced additional measures to support fashion SMEs.
These measures include development contracts with grants for investment projects ranging from 3 to 20 million euros, incentives for research and technological innovation, and a one-billion-euro fund made available by Unicredit to support business transformation.
Additionally, the Italian Trade Agency (ICE) has invested in bringing over 1,000 international buyers, providing new opportunities for Italian companies in foreign markets.
These initiatives reflect the Italian government’s commitment to preserving and revitalizing a key sector of the "Made in Italy" economy.
In Dead Stealth, we are proud to actively support brands by providing strategic guidance, technological innovation, and deep knowledge of processes. Through our extensive network and expertise, we help fashion brands navigate economic downturns, adopt sustainable practices, and expand into international markets offering them the right resources to remain competitive and innovative in an ever-evolving industry. More than just a business ally, Dead Stealth stands firmly by the side of fashion brands, understanding their challenges, fostering their growth, and ensuring they have the tools to thrive.
