Italian woodworking machinery production dropped by 16.5% in 2003 compared to the previous year, according to final data just released.
Acimall (the Italian woodworking machinery and tools manufacturers’ association) said production last year was worth nearly €1.4bn.
Exports, which account for 75% of the industry’s production, reduced by 13%, while domestic sales dropped by 31%.
Acimall director Paolo Zanibon suggested 2003 might be the last year of recession, with 2004 expect to be a year of stabilisation.
