Competitività nell’economia siciliana[Competitiveness in the Sicilian economy]

This paper aims to analyze the competitive capacity of the Sicilian production system in a region that has historically exhibited a delayed development. It argues, first, that innovation is the most critical driver for fostering competitiveness, as it enhances total factor productivity. Second, investing in knowledge emerges as the optimal strategy to increase the efficiency of production factors and serves as a cornerstone for achieving long-term growth and development. The ability to create and utilize knowledge is fundamental to the competitive advantage of companies and the generation of wealth in the economy. Furthermore, it is argued that institutions must foster competitiveness and growth through a simple, clear, and less bureaucratic regulatory framework. This is particularly crucial in regions that have historically invested significant public resources but achieved relatively modest outcomes in terms of income and employment growth. Specifically, this paper emphasizes the necessity of substantial public investments to strengthen infrastructure, the education and training sector, and research. Equally important are private investments, not only to expand the production base but, more critically, to enhance it qualitatively through new digital technologies, thereby raising the level of total factor productivity.