Italian Industry, decline or Transformation? A framework

The purpose of this article is to establish a micro- and macro-framework to interpret Italian problems correctly, given the inconsistency of statistical data currently used, and to offer some solutions for long-term growth. The latter, in particular, should be seen in the context of a transformation process, induced on the one hand by the crisis in large-scale businesse, and on the other by the emergence of a new class of medium-sized businesses, dubbed "fourth capitalism" with high innovation capabilities. The transformation that the Italian industrial system is experiencing enables the country to maintain its share of global markets. The new production structure originates largely from local production systems, is family-owned and tends to borrow little, operate in networks and retain its local roots, which is precisely why it represents a new and efficient driver of Italian growt