Italy’s private sector expansion gained further traction in February 2026, with the HCOB Italy Composite Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) edging higher to 52.1 from 51.4 in January 2026. The latest reading, updated on 4 March 2026, signals a modest but steady improvement in overall business activity across the country.
The move from 51.4 to 52.1 keeps the index comfortably above the 50-point threshold that separates expansion from contraction, indicating that both manufacturing and services continued to contribute to Italy’s economic momentum in early 2026. While the increase is incremental, it suggests underlying resilience in the private sector and hints at a gradual strengthening of domestic economic conditions.
With the Composite PMI now marking a second consecutive month in expansionary territory, February’s data may support a more constructive outlook for Italy’s short-term growth prospects, assuming current trends in business activity are sustained. Investors and policymakers are likely to watch upcoming releases closely for confirmation that this improvement can be maintained or built upon in the months ahead.
