Lombardy, services are the true driving force of the region: "Capable of coping with crises."

Milan – Services (+0.8%) are driving Lombardy's economy's growth —albeit modest, 0.7%—in 2024. These are the key findings of "Productive Milan," the 35th report from the Milan, Monza, Brianza, and Lodi Chamber of Commerce, which this year also charts the system's evolution over the last 25 years: resilient, solid businesses focused on increasingly technological services. Exports totaled €79.4 billion (+2.5% compared to 2023) and imports totaled €106.6 billion (+0.9%), accounting for 12.7% and 18.7% of the Italian total, respectively. The capital city saw foreign sales decline by 0.2% and imports by 1.4%, while Monza Brianza is on the up: exports increased by 5.8% and imports by 9.6%.

Milan's urban fabric is increasingly dynamic : one of the most significant findings concerns the growth of foreign-owned businesses: 17% of the total in the Milan area, 6 percentage points higher than the national average (11%). This figure goes beyond statistics; the survey emphasizes that it "is a clear sign of the importance of integration as a lever for development." This trend is being observed throughout the area. This phenomenon is part of a broader transformation of the local economic system, which since 2000 has seen an acceleration toward the service sector: today, 52.4% of companies operate in the service sector, a 60% increase from a quarter of a century ago.

"The economy of our regions remains positive and is growing , albeit moderately, compared to 2023," says President Carlo Sangalli. "Likewise, foreign trade is growing despite international tensions, and Milan remains a fertile ground for the creation of new businesses (+7,795), a trend that holds true across the region, with a 1.78% increase year-on-year." The economic capital also stands out for its innovation ecosystem , fueled by the synergy between companies, universities, and research centers. According to Elena Vasco, Secretary General of the Chamber of Commerce , "Milan has established itself as a competitive, resilient, and attractive hub, capable of addressing global crises and leading the digital and ecological transitions."

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