Among Italy’s most densely populated regions, Lombardy in the north of the country has held on to its position as one of the most prosperous as well. From the 19th century until the outbreak of World War 1, the region represented Italy’s economic center and industrial heartland.
Today, Lombardy accounts for 22 percent of value of the country’s economy. It has more than 800,000 companies spread across the region employing around 4.2 million people in a wide range of industries.
Irene Sacco, who is in charge of foreign investment and attraction for Invest in Lombardy and Promos Italia, told GMI Post how the two agencies have worked to bring in more international investment to Lombardy and make the process smooth for foreign companies establishing operations in the region.
“The Lombardy region boasts a favorable geographic position because it is located in the north of Italy at the heart of the most economically advanced European area. In terms of economic performance, Lombardy’s GDP is higher than many European states,” Sacco said.
Apart from its geographical location, Lombardy credits its economic strength to its prowess in industry, wealth of executive expertise, abundance of highly skilled workers, breadth of its domestic and global networks, and deeply rooted affinity for innovation.
“Lombardy benefits from the presence of a comprehensive range of industries that occupy different stages of the supply chain. Also, it possesses a leading position in manufacturing technology and in advanced industrial sustainability culture. Our region ranks first in the number of patents and clinical trials, and as well as in the number of professionals and researchers in medical sciences disciplines,” Sacco said.
Ready to accommodate foreign investors, particularly those from Japan, Lombardy also offers scenic landscapes and convenient locations to get away from a hectic work schedule. It is where one can enjoy the ideal work-life balance.
