The 33rd Crenos report on the Sardinian economy is underway at the University of Cagliari's Faculty of Economics.
Professor Marco Nieddu , a lecturer at the University of Cagliari, outlines the contents of the report, predicting a scenario of light and shade.
Among the island's strengths are the growth in employment, with favorable macroeconomic indicators, and the extraordinary vitality of the service sector . The real driving force behind the growth is tourism , which has seen significant spending growth and has consolidated the island's appeal well beyond national borders, despite issues of sustainability and housing challenges, with rising house prices .
Positive signs also emerged regarding innovation and the digital and artificial intelligence transition, which are seen as the only real key to closing the economic gap with the European Union average by increasing regional productivity.
On the other hand, Nieddu explains, the picture is of a Sardinia that continues to suffer from its historical problems related to healthcare and the " Sardinians' trust in healthcare." Then there's the declining birth rate , a consolidated trend with a steady decline for 15 years, and the brain drain that impoverishes the social fabric. A clear change in this trend, leveraging quality immigration, would be crucial.
Even the industrial sector , characterised by a network of small businesses, remains exposed to the volatility of global markets.
The challenge for the immediate future will therefore be played out on the ability of local politicians and businesses to overcome old industrial models.
According to Crenos researchers, Sardinia must find a new strategic direction that focuses on nurturing young talent and promoting sustainable tourism capable of generating value and employment year-round, transforming its strengths into stable and lasting growth.