FX.co ★ Italy’s Factory Activity Gains Momentum as HCOB Manufacturing PMI Rises to 51.3 in March

Italy’s manufacturing sector strengthened in March 2026, with the HCOB Italy Manufacturing PMI edging up to 51.3, compared with 50.6 in February 2026. The latest reading, updated on 01 April 2026, signals a firmer expansion in factory activity, keeping the index above the 50.0 threshold that separates growth from contraction.

The increase from February’s 50.6 suggests that operating conditions in Italy’s manufacturing industry are improving, albeit at a measured pace. The move higher in March underlines a continuation of the sector’s positive trend, reinforcing signs of resilience in Italian industry as the second quarter of 2026 approaches.