Italy’s maritime economy has reached a valuation of nearly €225 billion, representing 11.4% of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), according to details unveiled at the Blue Forum 2026 in Rome. The XIV National Report on the Sea Economy, presented at the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy on Wednesday, reveals strong growth for the sector.
The direct value added of Italy's "blue economy" rose to 78.9 billion euros in 2026. This marks a 3.8% year-on-year increase in direct value, outperforming the broader national economic growth rate of 2.1%. Additionally, every euro generated by the maritime sector stimulates an additional 1.8 euros in other industries.
The sector now encompasses 253,599 active businesses and employs more than 1.13 million people, following a 4.2% expansion in jobs. Regionally, Southern Italy holds a substantial share of this market, capturing 34.2% of the value added and 39.9% of total employment. Commenting on the findings, Enterprise Minister Adolfo Urso highlighted the importance of industrial developments in the sector, praising Fincantieri's initiative to establish an underwater hub as an operation of "extraordinary importance."