Lombardy’s Shoe Districts Seek Equal Footing in Italy’s ZES Program
Vigevano and Parabiago, key centers within Lombardy’s renowned shoe-making districts, are pushing for inclusion in Italy’s Zona Economica Speciale (ZES) – Special Economic Zone – program. The initiative, designed to stimulate economic development, has sparked debate over equitable access for industrial areas undergoing transformation. Currently, some regions, like Marche, have been included, while comparable districts in Lombardy remain excluded, raising concerns about unfair competition.
The ZES Program and Regional Disparities
The ZES program offers incentives to attract investment and foster growth. Gian Marco Centinaio, Vice President of the Senate, is advocating for the inclusion of Vigevano and Parabiago, arguing that excluding them creates disparities between territories in similar economic conditions. Centinaio emphasizes that if the ZES is intended to support industrial areas in transition, it should be available beyond the traditionally designated southern regions.
Industry Concerns: Beyond ZES – The Need for Tax Credits
While welcoming Centinaio’s initiative, Assolombarda Pavia, a local industrial association, suggests a more impactful solution: a consistent application of tax credits for investments. Massimo Martinoli, President of the Lomellina area of Assolombarda Pavia, points out that several municipalities in the Marche region, included in the ZES, benefit from a tax credit for productive investments. Vigevano, despite qualifying under the same European aid framework, currently lacks access to this crucial incentive.
A Question of Equity and Competitiveness
The core argument revolves around ensuring a level playing field. Martinoli highlights a “double criticality”: the extension of the ZES to Marche while similar Lombardy districts are excluded, and the unequal access to tax credits despite both regions being recognized as economically disadvantaged by the European Union. This discrepancy, he argues, risks undermining the competitiveness of the Italian shoe-making industry, a vital component of the country’s “Made in Italy” brand.
The Importance of a Unified National Approach
Assolombarda Pavia stresses the need for national alignment with European aid guidelines. The association believes that equal European criteria should translate into equal access to national support instruments. Without this consistency, there’s a risk of distorting competition and hindering the growth of a sector known for its excellence and innovation, supported by organizations like CIMAC, and Assomac.
FAQ
- What is the ZES program? The Zona Economica Speciale (ZES) is an Italian government initiative offering incentives to attract investment and promote economic development in designated areas.
- Why are Vigevano and Parabiago seeking ZES inclusion? They believe inclusion will provide access to incentives that will support their industrial sectors and foster growth.
- What is Assolombarda Pavia’s alternative proposal? They advocate for consistent application of tax credits for investments, aligning national instruments with European aid guidelines.
- What is the main concern raised by industry representatives? The concern is the creation of unequal competitive conditions between districts with similar economic characteristics.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about regional economic policies is crucial for businesses operating in Italy. Regularly check updates from organizations like Assolombarda and monitor government announcements regarding the ZES program.
Explore more articles on Italian economic development and regional policies here.
