Businesses, Casasco (FI): 'Simplification of the SEZ for the Centre-North will also be implemented'

Maurizio Casasco, a member of the Italian parliament representing Forza Italia, has called for the immediate extension of administrative simplifications introduced under the Zona Economica Speciale (ZES) program to regions in northern and central Italy. The proposal comes amid ongoing discussions about how to enhance competitiveness and attract investment across different parts of the country. Casasco made his remarks during a Question Time session at the Chamber of Deputies with Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy Adolfo Urso. He emphasized that while the current government has implemented significant measures to support the economy and boost GDP growth, the ZES initiative has proven particularly effective in generating tangible results. According to Casasco, the true value of the ZES lies not in its financial incentives but in its streamlined bureaucratic processes and faster administrative approvals. The Forza Italia leader argued that extending these simplified procedures to areas outside southern Italy would provide a crucial incentive for industrial zones in the north. He stressed that this approach does not detract from efforts aimed at supporting the south but instead addresses a pressing need for deregulation in the more productive regions of the country. Casasco urged the government to act swiftly rather than waiting until January 2027, as proposed in some legislative timelines. He further noted that while economic incentives could be considered in subsequent phases, they should focus on strategic sectors capable of driving broader economic growth. These include advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, digitalized mechanics, and data centers. Casasco described these fields as interconnected components of a larger technological infrastructure that must be prioritized in future investments. The call for administrative streamlining was framed as essential to prevent deindustrialization in highly productive regions. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles, businesses can operate more efficiently, which in turn supports new investments and job creation. Casasco expressed confidence in Minister Urso’s commitment to advancing this agenda promptly. The ZES program, initially launched to stimulate economic activity in southern Italy through targeted incentives and reduced regulatory burdens, has been successful in attracting both domestic and foreign investment. However, Forza Italia's proposal seeks to replicate this model in other parts of the country, focusing specifically on improving administrative efficiency rather than offering additional financial benefits. Casasco highlighted the importance of a centralized authorization system and quicker response times from authorities, which he believes are critical factors influencing business decisions. He pointed out that the current situation requires urgent action to ensure that northern and central regions remain competitive on a global scale, especially given the increasing emphasis on technological innovation and geopolitical positioning. The ministerial response to these proposals has yet to be fully detailed, though Casasco expressed hope that the government would move forward with implementing these changes as soon as possible. His statements reflect a broader political strategy within Forza Italia to address regional disparities while promoting policies that align with national economic priorities.