by InTrieste
Officials in Friuli Venezia Giulia met Monday with representatives from the nautical industry for the first formal discussion following the approval of a regional law dedicated to the sector.
The meeting, held at the regional headquarters in Udine, brought together public officials and industry stakeholders to review the first round of incentives introduced under the legislation and to outline priorities for the coming years.
Regional authorities say the measure makes Friuli Venezia Giulia the first region in Italy to adopt a law specifically focused on the boating sector. According to Sergio Emidio Bini, the regional councillor for productive activities and tourism, €3 million in funding has been allocated for grants in 2025, with an additional €1.8 million already planned for 2026.
During the meeting, participants reviewed the results of an initial round of incentives, described by regional officials as exploratory. Grants supporting tourist marinas, docks and moorings drew significant interest, with 23 projects funded for a total of €1.8 million.
Another program offering incentives for refitting — the refurbishment and modernization of pleasure boats — and the dismantling of older vessels received 231 approved applications, for about €750,000 in funding.
Regional officials also outlined measures planned for 2026, including a €300,000 call for companies in the shipbuilding supply chain, incentives totaling €200,000 for low-impact marine engines and environmentally sustainable pleasure craft used for tourism and training, and €1 million for continued refitting and demolition bonuses. Authorities said these allocations could increase in future budgets.
The region also plans to develop a master plan mapping available berths along the coast, a project that will involve both public and private operators to assess current capacity and future needs.
Promotion of the sector will continue through PromoTurismoFVG, the region’s tourism agency, with informational sessions planned in cooperation with coastal municipalities and industry groups.
Regional leaders said the forum will serve as a permanent channel of dialogue between the government and the nautical industry as the new law is implemented and the sector expands.
