Italian Fashion Forward Government Proposals Target Stability Innovation and Global Growth

The Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana (CNMI) has once again presented its comprehensive proposals to the Italian Government, an annual tradition coinciding with the presentation of the Budget Law. These detailed recommendations are specifically designed to offer policymakers concrete solutions and practical strategies aimed at bolstering the entirety of Italy's renowned fashion supply chain. The initiative underscores CNMI's commitment to collaborating with governmental bodies to secure a prosperous future for "Made in Italy."

Carlo Capasa, President of CNMI, articulated the sector's current needs, stating, "The fashion sector right now needs stability, vision and tools that reward those who innovate and create value in our country." He further emphasized the organization's dedication, asserting, "With these proposals to the government, the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana confirms its intention to work with institutions to secure for Made in Italy the future it deserves: strong, sustainable, and competitive." These 13 key proposals collectively outline a cohesive medium- to long-term strategy, crucial for strengthening the competitiveness of Italian fashion amidst numerous evolving challenges.

Among the pivotal measures highlighted in the document are critical initiatives focused on innovation and digitalization. CNMI advocates for the extension and strengthening of the existing tax credit dedicated to design and aesthetic development activities. Simultaneously, it calls for renewed and efficient funding for Industry 4.0 digitalization measures, proposing that unspent resources from the Transition 5.0 Plan be reallocated to achieve this goal, thus modernizing the sector's operational capabilities.

Addressing the vital area of skills and workforce development, CNMI's proposals are designed to safeguard and cultivate essential expertise. The document urges the implementation of incentives that facilitate the intergenerational transfer of invaluable artisanal know-how, ensuring the continuity of traditional craftsmanship. Furthermore, it advocates for the strengthening of corporate academies and the creation of instruments that encourage lead companies within the fashion ecosystem to support smaller manufacturing and craft businesses, which are often the first to feel the brunt of economic difficulties.

On the internationalization front, CNMI's strategy seeks to expand the global reach of Italian fashion. Key proposals include the introduction of a tax credit specifically for exports to the United States, a market significantly impacted by new tariffs. The document also outlines measures to actively support the expansion of Italian brands into emerging markets such as Mexico and the Mercosur countries within the South American trade block. Crucially, it envisages the establishment of a dedicated fund for the international dissemination of Italian fashion's values and image, intended to bolster activities promoted by CNMI, including the globally recognized Milan Fashion Week, which generates substantial economic value and positively contributes to national tax revenues.

Sustainability and the protection of fair competition are central to CNMI's vision. The organization proposes decisive regulatory action to counter the unchecked expansion of ultra-fast fashion, advocating for a combination of stringent regulatory measures, eco-contributions, and mandatory environmental labeling to ensure responsible production and consumption. Additionally, to alleviate financial burdens, it calls for a tax credit designed to offset high energy costs incurred in the first half of 2026 for companies that experience cost increases exceeding 25% compared to pre-crisis levels.

Finally, the welfare and labour section of the proposals focuses on enhancing the economic well-being of fashion industry workers. CNMI recommends an update to the current rules governing fringe benefits, advocating for their increase and stabilization. The overarching aim of this measure is to strengthen workers' purchasing power, thereby contributing significantly to an improvement in the economic conditions of the families concerned and fostering a more stable and supportive work environment within the Italian fashion sector.