In the second quarter of 2018 the export of Sardinian companies recorded a growth of 8.1% over the same period of 2017, excluding oil production. For the fourth consecutive year, in the first three months of the year there was a positive change in exports and a decline in imports, which decreased by 2.9%. The picture emerges from the economic data on foreign trade, recently published by ISTAT.
"It is yet another positive fact that we are recording on the export front", underlines the Regional Minister for Industry, Maria Grazia Piras. «The actions and interventions implemented over the past four years have generated almost unexpected results - she says - exports have strengthened and, in many cases, we have managed to bring companies together, to create a network, to reach new markets with enormous potential for those who want to expand their business volume». Maria Grazia Piras recalls that "we are the third region in Italy for investments aimed at exports, and compared to the past we managed to reverse the trend". According to her, "the road is the right one, even if there is still a lot to do".
But the incentive plan does not stop. "So far we have accompanied over 600 companies to conquer new foreign markets - highlights the Minister - through calls for individual companies, business networks, trade associations and consortia, with training activities, thematic forums, B2B meetings and numerous missions abroad, in particular, for agri-food and ICT companies ". In addition to the new calls and missions abroad, in the coming months support will also be given to entrepreneurs through the Export Lab for the training of export managers. The courses will be held in Cagliari and Sassari. And then there will be an ad hoc call for entrepreneurs from the province of Nuoro.
Incoming news also for micro, small and medium-sized companies in Sardinia that intend to export their products. Starting from September 20th, it will be possible to present applications for the new call for internationalization, aimed at individual companies. In this case, an allocation of 3 and a half million euros is foreseen for the implementation of penetration plans in foreign markets. The measure is included in the 2015-2018 three-year program, recently updated to 2020. The contributions expected range from 5 thousand to 150 thousand euro and will be granted for consulting services provided by xternal consultants, installation and management of stands to attend fairs and exhibitions, expenses to carry out promotional campaigns, missions and workshops abroad and organization of educational tours. Requests can be submitted until 20 February 2019, by connecting to the Sipes electronic platform. All the details are available on the Region's website and on www.sardegnaimpresa.it.