The recent evolution of the Italian production structure, with particular reference to industrial districts

Abstract

The work examines "The recent evolution of the Italian production structure, with particular reference to the industrial districts", bringing in relation the territorial dimension with the relevant economic and institutional aspects. Therefore, the territorial differences emerging from the empirical verifications so far considered at the level of the entire national production system, i.e. those on the importance of dimensional factors and specialization, as well as on the propulsive role played by exporting companies. The results obtained from the elaborations carried out lead to argue that productivity and degree of internationalization highlight a positive relationship with the profitability of the enterprises, while an obvious influence exerted by the choices of vertical disintegration, so as it does not seem to affect their geographical location. For the purpose of the success of innovation, these new skills appear closely linked, since only companies that demonstrate a high absorption capacity can maximize the benefits of collaborations. In conclusion, it seems opportune to return briefly to the introductory reflections to underline the elements which can be drawn from the three recent contributions here considered as useful to provide some answers to the questions initially posed.

Keywords

Industrial policy; Networks of enterprises; industrial districts; Italy; innovation; urban economy

JEL codes

L60; L14; R12