The Italian construction equipment market recorded stable growth in the first nine months of 2025, with 14,699 units sold, reflecting a 3% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The total includes 13,982 earth-moving machines (+2%) and 717 road machines (+10%), underscoring continued market momentum despite broader European slowdowns.

The figures, based on data from manufacturing and importing companies, were presented during an online press conference organized by Unacea and sponsored by Ecomondo, the international trade fair dedicated to ecological transition and circular economy models, scheduled to take place in Rimini from 4–7 November 2025. Unacea will participate with its institutional booth alongside Assodimi/Assonolo, the association representing equipment distributors and rental companies.

According to David Bazzi, CEO of Komatsu Italia Manufacturing, the latest results align with previous quarters that showed steady, moderate growth. “The decline seen in the third quarter versus the second is not concerning, as August is traditionally a month of limited activity,” he noted. “We expect acceleration in the coming months, supported by Special Economic Zones (ZES) and depreciation measures financed through PNRR funds. At a European level, Italy continues to perform strongly, maintaining positive growth while other markets face contraction. The real question is how long this favorable cycle will last.”

Gianluca Calì, Marketing Director of CGT, added that clarity around incentive programs such as Industry 4.0 and ZES earlier this year encouraged companies to advance purchases, giving the sector renewed momentum after months of uncertainty surrounding the new 5.0 scheme. “Construction activity and machine utilization remain stable, signaling that sites are operational and demand remains healthy. We anticipate year-end results in line with or slightly above 2024,” he said.

Domenico Matrone, General Manager of Wirtgen Macchine, echoed the sentiment, noting continued strength in the road machinery segment. “The sector remains solid, and 2025 is shaping up to be another positive year. Demand for cold planers confirms active job sites, though rollers are seeing a mild decline. Excluding deliveries linked to ZES and year-end incentives, underlying demand continues to show resilience,” he explained.

Luca Nutarelli, Managing Director of Unacea, highlighted that the market’s performance exceeded expectations. “Overall, 2025 results have outpaced our forecasts. However, global trade in the sector is experiencing a slowdown amid uncertainty in international markets. While Italy’s trade balance remains positive, it is slightly lower than last year,” he observed.

According to the latest Unacea-Cer foreign trade report, international trade in construction equipment declined in the first half of 2025. Italian exports totaled €1.5 billion, down 7.4% year-on-year, while imports stood at just over €990 million, a 7.1% decrease. Despite this contraction, the sector maintained a positive trade surplus of €585 million, though 7.8% lower than in 2024.