Goods imports:
~US$ 600 billion per year (world top 11)
Italy
Italy — Global Import Market
Italy is one of the world's largest importers, bringing in roughly US$ 600 billion in goods each year. As the EU's third-largest economy, it imports significant volumes of energy, vehicles, machinery, and chemicals to support its industrial and consumer base.
Market overview — imports by volume
Global share of imports:
~2.5%
Import reliance:
high on energy and intermediate goods
Notable:
a deep EU market with strong industrial and consumer demand
Top 10 imported items by value
1. Mineral fuels & oils
2. Motor vehicles & parts
3. Machinery & mechanical appliances
4. Chemical products & pharmaceuticals
5. Electrical machinery & electronics
6. Iron & steel articles
7. Plastics & articles
8. Food & beverages
9. Textiles & clothing
10. Medical & precision instruments
What this means for Canadian exporters
Italy is a substantial EU market for Canadian exporters of food, machinery, and industrial inputs. Access via CETA supports duty-advantaged entry. Italian food and beverage buyers are quality-focused, making Canada's reputation in this category a real asset.