The data from the report AgriMarkets di ISMEA paint an overall positive picture for the Italian agri-food sector. In the first eleven months of 2025, exports in the sector grew 5% year-on-year, reaching nearly €67 billion, compared to a 3,1% increase in overall national exports. The trend in flows suggests a year-end close of around €73 billion, a new all-time high.
The result is supported by a widespread improvement in economic indicators. In the third quarter of 2025, agricultural value added increased by 0,6% year-on-year and by 0,8% compared to the previous quarter, while food industry production increased by 4,5% in the first nine months of the year. The labor market is also positive: agricultural employment increased by 1% compared to the second quarter and by 1,5% year-on-year.
On the macroeconomic front, Italian GDP grew 0,1% quarter-on-quarter and 0,6% year-on-year in the third quarter, amid an international context still marked by uncertainty and trade tensions. In this context, product diversity and businesses' ability to adapt continue to support the competitiveness of agri-food supply chains.
The framework is strengthened by public interventions to support the primary sector. Since the beginning of the legislature, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forestry, led by Francesco Lollobrigida It has mobilized over 15 billion euros of national and European resources to support agriculture and agri-industry.
Among the most dynamic sectors, wine stands out: production for the 2025/2026 crop year is estimated at approximately 47 million hectoliters (+8%), confirming Italy as the world's leading producer by volume. Processing tomatoes (+11% compared to 2024) and some summer fruit and vegetable crops also performed well.
Following the primary phase, the food industry accelerated, with production growth rising 3% compared to the second quarter and 4,5% year-over-year. In the first nine months of 2025, domestic food consumption increased 4%, signaling a recovery in volumes for several consumer products.
Looking at the specific sectors, we see progress in cereals—particularly corn and durum wheat—a recovery in extra virgin olive oil with sharply increasing exports, a positive trade balance in fruit and vegetables, and sustained growth in poultry. Dairy and cured meats are also performing well, driven by exports and the premium positioning of some PDO products. Overall, ISMEA data indicate an agri-food supply chain that, despite a complex environment, continues to grow in value and strengthen its presence on international markets, supported by investments, production quality, and the recognition of Made in Italy.
