Italian menswear exports down 3.2% in 2025

The outlook for Italian menswear remains uncertain in 2025, according to the latest report by Confindustria Moda presented at the press conference for Pitti Uomo 109, scheduled to take place in Florence from January 13 to 16, 2026. Despite a generally sluggish performance, exports to the United States rose by 6.5% between January and July, confirming the country as the second-largest destination market for Italian menswear.

Overall, exports fell by 3.2% in the first seven months of the year, reaching €5.3 billion, while imports increased by 5.5% to €3.8 billion. Within the European Union, sales grew by 2.4%, led by France, while non-EU exports dropped by 7.8%. However, non-EU markets still account for the majority share, absorbing 52.2% of total exports. Among other key destinations, Germany declined slightly (–1.9%), China fell sharply (–18.4%), and Spain showed growth (+5.1%).

Imports also showed contrasting trends: down 4.9% from the EU, but up 15.9% from non-EU countries. Bangladesh, China and Spain remain Italy’s top suppliers, while Pakistan (+26.5%), Vietnam (+23.3%) and Cambodia (+45.7%) recorded strong growth. The only export segment showing positive performance was leather apparel, up 8%.

Against this backdrop, Pitti Uomo 109 will return to Florence’s Fortezza da Basso with more than 700 brands (44% international), introducing a new area dedicated to independent beauty brands. The event’s theme, Motion, aims to capture the industry’s shifting dynamics and stimulate new connections between creativity and business.

Guest designer Hed Mayner, one of the most acclaimed contemporary talents, will headline the fair with his sculptural approach to menswear. Japan will also play a major role, with special projects featuring designers such as Soshi Otsuki, Shinyakozuka, and the Sebiro Sampo collective, which will stage the first “walk-show” through Florence’s historic center.

An installation by French architect Marc Leschelier will welcome visitors at the entrance of the Fortezza. Among the highlights are the debut of Baracuta’s womenswear collection, the new ski line by Roy Roger’s and Kappa, and the relaunch of Austrian heritage brand Schneider’s of Salzburg. The fair will also feature an exhibition by IED Firenze and Fondazione Palazzo Strozzi dedicated to Georgian artist Andro Eradze.

❤️ Support Florence Daily News

If you liked this article, please consider supporting Florence Daily News.

We are an independent news site, free from paywalls and intrusive ads, committed to providing clear and reliable reporting on Florence and Tuscany for everyone.

Your support — whether a one-time gift or a regular contribution — helps us stay independent and keep telling the stories that matter.

Donate securely via Stripe below.