It was presented last Oct. 28 at the Italy Village in Singapore, during the Amerigo Vespucci Ship's World Tour, the 12th edition of “Exporting the Dolce Vita,” the Report of the Confindustria Study Center, produced with the support of UniCredit and in collaboration with SACE, which analyzes the potential of the Beautiful and Well Made (BBF) in world markets.

After Washington and Dubai, Confindustria chose, for this third event, Singapore, a strategic hub for Southeast Asia, the first market by potential in ASEAN and a key partner for Italy, with a strong appreciation for Made in Italy productions. 

Significant growth potential

With a value of 161.3 billion euros, Bello e Ben Fatto accounts for 26.2 percent of Italian exports. The growth potential is also considerable: we are talking about an increase in exports of 53.9 billion euros over the next five years, if Italy improves its production capacity.

As Barbara Cimmino, Vice President for Export and Investment Attraction at Confindustria, pointed out, “Singapore, a strategic hub for Southeast Asia and the first market by potential in ASEAN, is a key partner for Italy. There is ample room for growth to increase the market share of Made in Italy in the area, with a potential increase for BBF estimated at 1 billion euros. We look forward to strengthening bilateral relations, supported by the free trade agreement with the EU, to promote open and inclusive economic development.”

Opportunities in ASEAN Countries and Sustainability

The Report focuses on two main themes: opportunities in ASEAN countries and the growing role of corporate sustainability.

orts to this region amount to €9.6 billion, of which €2.1 billion is BBF-related, accounting for 21.6 percent of the total. Among ASEAN countries, Singapore is the most relevant partner for Italy, with total exports of 2.8 billion, of which 750 million are attributable to BBF, accounting for 36.2 percent of all exports to the country.

The second key theme is sustainability, which is increasingly taking a central role in harnessing growth potential. Growing consumer interest in sustainability is now a crucial factor: in order to gain new market share and maintain the loyalty of current customers, the level of sustainability of products sold can no longer be ignored.

The excellence of Made in Italy

Bello e Ben Fatto not only constitutes a significant part of Italian exports: food, fashion and furniture represent the excellence of Made in Italy and strengthen the country's image in the world, combining economic and intangible value. As a matter of fact, BBF products manage to obtain a price at least 20 percent higher than their competitors thanks to their ability to convey Italian-ness, a feature highly appreciated by global consumers.

To develop growth potential, the Report suggests focusing on sustainability, digital channels, international relations and Made in Italy recognition.