The annual FederUnacoma Think Tank has concluded in Bevagna, Perugia, outlining the economic and geopolitical challenges shaping the future of agricultural machinery companies. Key discussions revolved around potential trade tariffs, the need to diversify export markets and evolving consumer trends that impact the agro-industrial supply chain.
“Economic, financial and geopolitical factors significantly influence businesses but companies are not merely passive players, they adapt and respond with strategic tools,” said Simona Rapastella, General Director of FederUnacoma, as she opened the Think Tank session titled ‘Overhauling Your Business: Strategies and Tools for Market Challenges’. Hosted at Tenuta Castelbuono, the event brought together industry leaders to tackle pressing concerns ahead of what is expected to be a challenging 2025 for the agricultural machinery and gardening sector.
A downturn in both domestic and key foreign markets particularly Europe and North America has been driven by rising production and logistics costs, economic uncertainty and shifting geopolitical dynamics. However, agricultural mechanics must now play an even more strategic role in meeting growing demands for quality, efficiency and sustainability in farming practices.
“The agricultural machinery sector has always been a driver of agricultural growth and efficiency. Through research and innovation, manufacturers have developed increasingly advanced equipment that optimises agricultural processes while reducing inputs and improving sustainability. Today, the challenges are even greater, requiring significant investments in an unpredictable market,” said Mariateresa Maschio, President of FederUnacoma.
One of the major uncertainties is the US government’s proposal to impose tariffs on foreign imports, which could directly impact Italy, a key supplier of agricultural machinery to the American market. “The US administration faces a dilemma. The proposed tariffs aim to boost domestic production in strategic sectors such as automotive, pharmaceuticals, steel and copper, while also pressuring foreign economies to support US public debt. For Italian manufacturers, this means diversifying trade strategies and identifying new markets to offset potential losses,” explained Federico Fubini, Deputy Director of Corriere della Sera.
Stefano Galli, Global Business Partner at NielsenIQ, highlighted another crucial market shift, Asia’s growing dominance in global consumption. He noted, “By 2032, Asia is expected to account for half of global private spending. This shift is driven by rising incomes and an expanding middle class, increasing demand for premium food products. However, consumer priorities are evolving beyond quality, with sustainability playing an increasingly important role in purchasing decisions.”
To strengthen competitiveness, the Think Tank’s afternoon sessions focused on three key pillars, investing in research, fostering generational leadership transitions and implementing innovative marketing strategies tailored to the agricultural machinery sector. As the industry navigates a complex economic landscape, these strategies will be vital in ensuring resilience, growth and sustainability in the years ahead.
