The 2023 edition of the Check-Up Mezzogiorno, drawn up by Confindustria and SRM, confirms some positive signs and a general resilience of enterprises compared to the 2022 edition.

The estimate of theSummary index of the southern economy for 2023, compiled taking into account the main macroeconomic variables, is growing for the third year in a row, following the collapse in 2020. The estimated value for 2023 is 534.9, i.e. 8.8 points higher than the previous year's figure. In addition, it should be noted that, in the wake of the 2022 figure, the 2007 level is exceeded.

Notwithstanding the structural criticalities of the southern economic system, the economic analysis therefore shows a growth of individual indicators that make up the index compared to the previous year. These cyclical dynamics highlight a Mezzogiorno resilient to the crises of recent years and with significant potential for revitalisation. The same dynamics, of course, do not seem to solve the structural complexities of the area.

There are at least three major development factors on which the Mezzogiorno must grow. These are the so-called "3C': Skills (from training to innovation), Connectivity (through adequate road, rail, port and air connection infrastructure, but also and above all digital and technological) and Business competitiveness (primarily in terms of entrepreneurial density and intensity).

It is therefore necessary to insist on the strengthening the economy of the Mezzogiornothrough targeted interventions that support investments, especially for transitions and quality employment. To this end, we need an industrial policy that, by exploiting the substantial resources available - European and national - can create an environment that is favourable to the growth of territories and businesses in the Mezzogiorno and, at the same time, enhance their production potential.

In this context, a central role will be played by the PNRRwhose reshaping is much-awaited news. In fact, the resources from the PNRR - together with those activated with the Single SEZ - will be crucial for the country's growth, but even more so for that of the Mezzogiorno.