
Export agri-food machines: the case of industrial machinery for the breadmaking
What are the factors that guide the growing popularity of industrial food machinery globally and what role does Italy play in this fascinating game?
The machinery industry for the food industry is growing steadily, both globally and in Italy. In 2022 the industry market was estimated at $100 billion, projected to grow at an annual rate of 5% from 2023 to 2027.
Italy is among the leading exporters of food machines globally, boasting a market share of 12% in 2022. In particular, excels in the export of milk processing machines, bakery machinery and pasta production machines.
In this blogpost, we will offer you a detailed overview of the sector, focusing on Italy’s important role as an exporter of high quality agri-food machinery.
We will explore the main foreign markets to be considered for Italian companies that aim to expand their business abroad, analyzing the key factors to consider in choosing the target markets.
SUMMARY:
1. An overview of the global market for agri-food machines
2. The main importing countries of Italian agri-food machinery
3. Italian exports of bakery machinery
4. Conclusions

Overview of International Trades in the Agricultural Machinery Sector
The agorical machinery industry is distinguished by its constant expansion. In 2021 the market has reached a value of 28 billion euros This momentum is fed by several factors, including the growth of the global population, the increase in per capita income and changing food habits.
Among the virtuous protagonists of the export of food machinery, Germany, China, the United States and of course Italy stand out. At the same time, the United States, China, India and Japan are characterized as the main importers of this high-level gastronomic technology.
Wide is the range of food machinery, embracing the entire processing and production cycle:
- Food Processing Machinery
- Food Packaging Machinery
- Food refrigeration and freezing machines
- Food Cooking Machines
- Food Cleaning Machines
In addition, trends rising in the food machinery market include:
- The exponential increase in the demand for processed foods, witnessing the growing interest in practicality.
- The growing integration of cutting-edge technologies, which redefine production processes.
- A deep focus on sustainability, an imperative for the future of our planet.
In this dynamic scenario, Italy stands as a beacon of excellence, transforming its culinary savoir-faire into cutting-edge industrial solutions.
The key markets for export of machinery for the agribusiness industry Made in Italy
Italy, a global reference point in the agri-food machinery sector, emerges as one of the main protagonists in exporting these value technologies. Only in 2021, the value of Italian exports of food machinery has touched the significant figure of 3.2 billion euros, marking a remarkable growth of 12% compared to the previous year.
Among the priority target markets for the export of agricultural machinery “made in Italy” emerge some nations that stand out for their economic relevance and their growth potential.
United States
The US is one of the most promising markets for Italian food machinery exports. In 2021, the value of Italian exports to the United States exceeded 1.1 billion euros. The driving force of this market is given by its high rate of demographic growth and economic development. Although it is a highly competitive market, it offers considerable growth opportunities for Italian companies that focus on innovation and quality.
Germany
The German market is another important goal for the export of Italian food machinery. Exports to Germany reached 600 million euros in 2021. The German food industry is highly developed and requires high quality machinery, thus offering an excellent opportunity for Italian companies to expand. Less competitive than the United States but equally favorable to growth.
Spain
Spain is a third reference market for Italian exports of food machinery. In 2021, the value of exports reached 300 million euros, but the Spanish food industry is growing rapidly and there is a growing demand for high quality machinery. This country offers a combination of growth opportunities and a less competitive environment than other key nations.
Poland
Poland is another crucial market for exporting Italian agri-food machineryIn 2021, the value of Italian exports to Poland reached 200 million euros. Thanks to the growing food industry and government incentives to purchase and modernize production machinery, Poland offers a favourable environment for Italian companies looking for new market outlets.
Italian export of bread and bakery machines
Italy is the world's first producer and exporter of bread and bakery machinery, a sector that has seen significant growth in 2021 with a export value of over 1.5 billion euros, marking a 15% increase compared to the previous yearThe main target markets for these machines are Germany, France, Spain and the United States.
Italian companies have gained a leading position thanks to their ability to offer innovative and high quality products, equipped with advanced technologies.
The bakery machinery industry is experiencing a phase of intense growth, driven by several factors, including the increase in the world population, urbanization and the increase in disposable income. The global market for food machines is expected to reach a value of more than 5 billion euros by 2025, offering new opportunities for Italian companies.
In conclusion
In conclusion, it is evident that the agri-food machinery sector is going through a period of considerable growth and that Italy – with a market share of 12% globally – plays a key role as an exporter of high quality food machinery.
If you are a company that aims to expand its business abroad in the food industry, it is essential to consider key markets such as the US, Germany, Spain and Poland. These nations offer significant growth opportunities and increasing demand for high quality machinery.
