Italian textile machinery manufacturers recorded mixed but encouraging results during the April–June 2026 period, with order intake showing signs of recovery compared to the previous quarter despite remaining below year-earlier levels.
According to the latest industry data, the order index at constant prices reached 46.6 points (2021=100), representing a 3% decline compared with the second quarter of 2025. The year-on-year decrease was primarily attributed to weaker domestic demand, where orders fell 25% compared to the corresponding period last year.
For the first half of 2026, total orders were down 4% compared with the same period in 2025. Domestic orders declined 11%, while international orders recorded a comparatively smaller decrease of 3%.
Quarter-on-Quarter Recovery Signals Improving Market Conditions
Although annual comparisons remained under pressure due to a strong comparison base in 2025, quarter-on-quarter performance indicated a significant recovery.
Compared with the January–March 2026 period, total order intake increased by 25%, supported by stronger demand across both domestic and international markets.
- Domestic orders increased 39% over the previous quarter.
- International orders rose 23% during the same period.
The improvement suggests renewed business activity as manufacturers entered the second quarter of the year.
Production Backlog and Capacity Utilization
On the operational side, the industry’s accumulated order backlog currently provides approximately 3.5 months of guaranteed production.
Meanwhile, capacity utilization among Italian textile machinery manufacturers reached 79.7%, indicating continued production activity despite mixed market conditions.
Sector Performance
Compared with the first quarter of 2026, domestic market performance was either stable or positive across all production segments.
The strongest domestic growth was reported in:
- Spinning machinery
- Weaving machinery
International markets also showed encouraging trends, particularly in:
- Weaving machinery
- Knitting machinery
- Finishing machinery
These sectors recorded positive growth compared with the previous quarter.
Outlook for the Third Quarter
Looking ahead to the third quarter of 2026, manufacturers expect overall sales volumes to remain broadly stable.
Companies remain cautious regarding the domestic market, while expectations for export markets are evenly balanced between anticipated increases and decreases in demand, reflecting measured optimism for international business during the coming months.