Latest news with #ItalianTradeAgency
Forbes
09-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
‘Italy On Madison,' A Pop-Up Showcase Of Italian Style In New York
Vespa is an iconic Italian motor scooter manufactured by Piaggio, one of many symbols of Italian design and manufacturing getty The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) is inviting the public to experience authentic Italian lifestyle and culture at its Madison Avenue townhouse in New York City. For the first time, the much-anticipated third edition of Italy on Madison will take place at the beautiful ITA headquarters. On Wednesday, May 14th and Thursday, May 15th, 2025, more than 90 Italian brands—spanning fashion, design, beauty and wellness, food, and wine—will offer visitors a unique, immersive experience akin to a trip to Italy. The ITA is housed in a historic five-story townhouse at 33 East 67th Street. Constructed at the turn of the 20th century, the neo-Georgian-style mansion was commissioned as a residence for Hugh D. Auchincloss, a prominent businessman and financier. The showcase will recreate the ambiance of an Italian home and the rhythms of Italian life with a collection of more than 100 pieces by over 40 iconic Italian brands and designers. Each room will focus on a different aspect of the Italian lifestyle. INTERNI, a leading interior design and architecture publication, curated the exhibition. 'With Italy on Madison, we are not just showcasing products,' says Erica Di Giovancarlo, Commissioner Director of the ITA in the U.S. in a press release announcing the event. 'We are inviting the public to experience the spirit of 'Made in Italy' in a deeply personal and sensory way.' Recognized globally, the 'Made in Italy' brand is synonymous with excellence in creativity, quality and craftsmanship. On the runway at Milan Fashion Week getty The series of masterclasses, demos and experiences led by experts will include: Face Yoga: Glow & Let Go! A wellness session blending facial yoga with premium Italian skincare brands Framed and Styled the Italian Way Live hairstyling and trends in Italian opticals Casa Italiana Talk A conversation on the future of Italian design, interiors and sustainable craftsmanship, and a talk on the relationship between design and history Fashion Photoshoot: Behind the Scenes A renowned fashion photographer and elite runway models will honor Italian fashion Stirred in Italy: An Immersive Risotto Experience Chef Riccardo Orfino will prepare this iconic dish with elegance and flair Wine & Spirits Activation: What Drink Are You? A playful tasting experience The complete Italy on Madison program can be found here: Events are free of charge, but registration is required and spots are limited. About the Italian Trade Agency Italy on Madison is hosted by the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), the governmental agency that supports business development of companies abroad and promotes foreign investment.
Malaysian Reserve
05-05-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Veronafiere and the Italian Trade Agency Convene U.S. Wine Industry Leaders to Tackle Tariffs and Market Challenges in Washington, D.C. Roundtable
WASHINGTON, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Veronafiere, organizer of Vinitaly, and the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) hosted a high-level roundtable entitled, 'Inside Italian Wine's Next Move in America' at Cafe Milano in Washington, D.C. on Thursday of last week. In anticipation of (taking place in Chicago on October 5–6), the event gathered leading figures from the U.S. wine trade, Italian institutions, policymakers, and the media to discuss strategies for navigating the evolving American wine market. At a time of renewed tariff uncertainty and shifting consumer trends, the roundtable created space for candid dialogue on how to protect and grow Italian wine's presence in the U.S.—Italy's most valuable export market, accounting for 24% of total Italian wine exports. Italian wine remains the #1 imported wine category in the U.S., holding a 33% market share. Key Speakers and Guests Notable attendees included Federico Bricolo, President of Veronafiere; Matteo Zoppas, President of the Italian Trade Agency (ITA); Adolfo Rebughini, General Manager of Veronafiere; Robert Tobiassen, President of the National Association of Beverage Importers (NABI); Robert Allegrini, President of the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF); and representatives from Akin Gump, lobbying on behalf of the U.S. Wine Trade Alliance. Also present were key industry leaders such as Tara Empson, CEO of Empson USA and recipient of the 2025 Vinitaly International Award; Dina Opici, Chairwoman of the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) and President of Opici Family Distributing; Francis Creighton, CEO and President of WSWA; Federico Veronesi, CEO of Oniwines Group; Charles Lazzara, CEO of Volio Imports; and Amanda Page, Director of Tolaini Distribution. Guest of honor was Mariangela Zappia, Italy's Ambassador to the United States. Discussion Highlights Federico Bricolo addressed the urgency of the moment: 'Even modest tariffs can have a significant ripple effect in a highly competitive market like the United States. In today's climate of geopolitical tension, direct engagement is more critical than ever. Strengthening ties with U.S. trade partners now can help mitigate future risks. A well-established relationship between producer and importer is more likely to withstand cost pressures or policy shifts, enabling both sides to adapt rather than retreat.''Events like are essential platforms to reinforce relationships, build visibility, and strengthen resilience across the trade.' Matteo Zoppas echoed the concern over tariffs: 'Until there is greater clarity on implementation, it's difficult to fully gauge the impact on exports. What we do know is that tariffs are damaging in any scenario—just their announcement can destabilize the market.'He continued:'According to the U.S. Wine Trade Alliance, for every dollar earned by an Italian wine producer, U.S. businesses earn $4.52. This is a result of the three-tier distribution system, where American importers, distributors, retailers, and restaurants apply margins at every stage.' Adolfo Rebughini emphasized the consumer impact: 'Tariffs will inevitably raise prices. A mid-range bottle of Prosecco that once retailed at $10.99 may soon cost $12.99. That's why initiatives like are so important. These events not only promote Italian wine but also help strengthen the producer–importer relationship, giving both sides the tools to navigate challenges and ensure long-term success in the U.S. market.' The discussion underscored the need for ongoing collaboration, renewed investment by Italian producers in the U.S., and market diversification into regions like Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and Asia. Next Steps: White Paper to Follow To ensure the insights and recommendations shared during the roundtable have lasting impact, a white paper will be drafted based on the discussion and made available to the broader wine industry in the coming weeks. The document will be published on the official Vinitaly and websites and shared with stakeholders across the international wine trade. About returning for its second edition in October 2025, is the largest and most comprehensive Italian wine trade show outside of Italy—and the only event officially licensed to carry the Vinitaly name beyond in 2024, the inaugural edition featured 230 producers and more than 1,650 wines, attracting over 1,500 qualified trade and media professionals. The 2025 edition is expected to surpass 300 producers and expand its reach, further solidifying its position as a premier destination for the North American wine trade. Media Contact Morgana Germanetto, Colangelo & Partners, +1 646 624-2885, mgermanetto@
Daily Tribune
30-04-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Tribune
Italian Embassy celebrates second edition of Made in Italy Day
H.E. Ambassador Andrea Catalano, the Ambassador of Italy to Bahrain, in collaboration with the Italian Trade Agency, ICE, hosted the 2nd edition of the Made in Italy Day at his Residence in Saar. Made in Italy Day is an annual celebration of Italy's remarkable contributions to art, design, technology, fashion and innovation. It is part of the framework of the Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Antonio Tajani's initiative to "support Italian exports as one of the government's priorities", reaffirming the centrality of "diplomacy for growth". The evening was dedicated to the great figures of Italian history such as Leonardo da Vinci, Galileo Galilei, Alessandro Volta and Guglielmo Marconi, whose ingenuity shaped the modern world. For the occasion, the garden of the Italian Residence in Saar was transformed into iconic Italian streets: Rome, Milan, Florence and Naples. Here, the "Career Photography" exhibition of the Compasso d'Oro Industrial Design Award was on display, along with the haute couture creations of Ettore Bilotta, who also gave a masterclass in Qalat-al-Bahrain on Made in Italy and haute couture design, and the leather goods of the historic artisan company Alfredo Beretta, complemented by the jewellery of Bahraini designer Amal Sanad of Kyan Jewels. Italian luxury was also represented by the Ferrari and Maserati cars exhibited by Euromotors, while high technology in the sporting sector was demonstrated by the Formula 1 helmets of the Racing Force Group. Italian excellence was also present in the food and wine sector, thanks to the products of SITAF, the drinks of Gruppo Distillati and the menu curated by Chef Simona Girelli of Sapori di Toscana, according to the principles of Slowfood, a participant in the initiative that reflects the quality of the Mediterranean diet, a UNESCO World Heritage. In attendance were H.E. Shaikha Maram bint Isa Al Khalifa, Secretary General of the National Initiative for Agricultural Development (NIAD), local dignitaries and several foreign ambassadors, as well as major business owners with Italian connections. In his opening speech, Ambassador Catalano said: "I have the pleasure of welcoming the Bahraini community this evening at the Residenza d'Italia in Saarland, transformed for the occasion into a temple of Made in Italy in which to learn about and celebrate the immense heritage represented by Italian genius in all sectors, from fashion to design, engineering to agriculture. The Made in Italy Day is one of the many initiatives of the Italian Government in the sphere of growth diplomacy and is the ideal setting in which to convey our narrative on Made in Italy and Italian well-made products.
Campaign ME
28-03-2025
- Business
- Campaign ME
‘MENA region presents significant opportunities for Italian beauty brands'
Italian beauty brands are strengthening their presence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, coming fourth as the largest cosmetic exporter to the UAE. The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) is playing an important role in facilitating this expansion, connecting Italian brands with distributors and retailers in the region. Valerio Soldani, Italian Trade Commissioner to the UAE says, 'As one of the wealthiest regions in the Middle East, the UAE boasts a high demand for luxury and premium beauty products, with consumers willing to invest in high-quality skincare, cosmetics, and fragrances.' He continues, 'The contribution of Italian cosmetics and personal care industry to the UAE market economy is growing at a very high rate. The country's beauty market was valued at AED 10 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to project a consistent growth with a CAGR of 4 per cent through 2028 according to Euromonitor.' This begs the question: why are Italian beauty brands targeting MENA buyers, and what does this mean for the beauty industry? Why Italian beauty brands are targeting MENA The UAE cosmetics market, valued at $1.5 billion USD in 2023, is projected to reach $2.4 billion USD by 2032. The demand for luxury and premium beauty products continues to rise, as consumers in the region seek high-end skincare, professional haircare, and fine fragrances. Where there is demand, there are opportunities for brands. According to The Data Monitor, Italian cosmetics exports as of October 2024 reached €271,279 a +26.19 per cent increase from the same period of 2024. Italy holds an 8.02 per cent of the market share to the UAE. 'The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) plays an active role in supporting the globalisation of Italian beauty brands in the UAE by providing a range of services and initiatives designed to increase the visibility and success of Italian products in the local market,' says Soldani. The UAE serves as a strategic hub for Italian beauty brands, offering strong retail infrastructure and an expanding e-commerce sector. With its central location and trade agreements spanning over 70 countries, the UAE is a key gateway for brands looking to enter and connect with the wider Middle Eastern and African markets. Soldani believes that, the MENA region presents significant opportunities for Italian brands, with strong demand for premium and innovative beauty products and ITA initiatives aim to strengthen these trade ties and create long-term partnerships in the region. He says, 'Emirati based business are always on the lookout for the latest and best Italian cosmetic and beauty innovations. In March 2024, 14 top Emirati industry players selected and invited by our team at ITA Dubai, attended the Cosmoprof in Bologna where they were introduced to the best and latest Italian Cosmetics and beauty sectors. A unique opportunity ITA offers to foreign buyers, companies, journalists, and influencer to have a direct experience in the industrial district where the Beauty of Made in Italy is made.' Expanding trade ties Earlier this year, the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, along with ITA, hosted a total of 15 industry players as part of their Buyer's Program. In partnership with Cosmetica Italia and Cosmoprof, the event featured Italian beauty brands such as KIKO Milano, Diego Dalla Palma, Teaology, Nashi, KEMO, Quattro, and Rudy Profumi, which presented their 'Made in Italy' beauty products. 'We will be hosting a total of 15 top industry players from the UAE, selected and invited by ITA Dubai to be part of the Buyer's Program that allows them to experience and meet the best Italian brands that are looking to grow and expand in the UAE,' says Soldani, 'The event is a step-up in our promotional investment in the market and a further acknowledgment of the UAE's key role in the global market when it comes to style and lifestyle' Supporting Italian brands in a competitive market and understanding regional trends To assist in the globalisation of Italian beauty brands and help them navigate the UAE market, ITA will provide brands with detailed market insights, enabling them to understand local consumer trends and preferences. The organisation also facilitates connections between Italian companies and key distributors, retailers, and sales networks. 'Some of the key ways ITA helps Italian beauty brands expand in the UAE include providing valuable market intelligence, helping Italian beauty brands understand consumer preferences, trends, and potential challenges,' says Soldani. Smaller Italian brands, however, may struggle with visibility in the competitive UAE market. 'By connecting these brands with key local distributors, ITA ensures they have access to established networks for wider reach,' Soldani explains. The organisation also helps them identify niche segments, facilitates group participation in trade events, and supports their online presence through local e-commerce platforms, enabling them to tap into the region's growing digital consumer base.' Soldani adds that Italian beauty brands aiming to enter the UAE market must align with key regional consumer trends to succeed. While luxury and high-quality products remain in high demand, sustainability is becoming increasingly important, with a preference for natural ingredients, recyclable packaging, and cruelty-free certifications. Personalisation is also a growing trend, as buyers seek beauty solutions tailored to their specific needs. 'Clean beauty is on the rise, making transparency in ingredient sourcing essential, while halal beauty products continue to be a priority for many consumers,' says Soldani. Beauty tech is gaining traction, with consumers embracing innovative tools and devices, and wellness-focused beauty products are also seeing increased demand, promoting both outer beauty and overall well-being. Additionally, Soldani highlights the significant influence of social media and digital creators on beauty trends and purchasing decisions, making them key channels for Italian brands to strengthen their presence in the UAE. The future of Italian beauty in MENA With Italy's beauty exports to the UAE increasing by 26.19 per cent in 2024, demand for Italian products continues to grow. 'As a significant market for Italian goods, the UAE also plays a crucial role as a regional hub for Italian companies expanding their business across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. With its dynamic economy, openness to international trade, and prime location as a gateway to the region, the UAE offers valuable opportunities for Italian exporters,' says Soldani. The UAE's strategic location, growing consumer interest in high-quality products, and strong retail infrastructure make it an ideal hub for entering the MENA market. However, to succeed, Italian beauty brands must align with key regional trends such as sustainability, personalisation, and the increasing demand for innovative, halal beauty technologies.
Web Release
26-02-2025
- Business
- Web Release
Spinneys and Italian Trade Agency – Beirut Office Strengthen Their Partnership for the 3rd year in a row
Reaffirming their commitment to enhancing trade and economic ties between Lebanon and Italy, Spinneys and the Italian Trade Agency – Beirut office – hosted an exclusive gathering on February 25, in the heart of the capital Beirut. The event was attended by the Italian Ambassador to Lebanon, Fabrizio Marcelli, the Italian Trade Agency Director Marina Scognamiglio and the executive team of Gray Mackenzie Retail Group, as well as local key representatives of the F&B sector. This gathering marked another milestone in their successful partnership. Since formalizing their collaboration, Spinneys and the Italian Trade Agency have worked closely to introduce genuine Italian products to the Lebanese market. By bringing authentic Italian flavors to Lebanon, the partnership not only expands consumer choices but also raises the growing economic exchange between the two countries, especially in the food and beverage sectors. During the event, Guests indulged in a carefully curated selection of purely Italian specialties, including fine cold cuts, artisanal pasta, and an exquisite variety of wines and spirits. The event also received significant media attention, with coverage from TV stations, journalists, and influencers. Marina Scognamiglio, Director of the ITA – Beirut office, emphasized the importance of sustaining international trade even in challenging times, stating, 'Our collaboration with Spinneys is more than just business—it is an economic bridge between Italy and Lebanon. Even in uncertain circumstances, trade remains a key driver for growth and normalization.' Ralph El Kahi, Chief Marketing Officer of Gray Mackenzie Retail Group, commented, 'Spinneys has always been committed to offering our customers the best global products, and our partnership with the Italian Trade Agency allows us to do just that. Italy and Lebanon are bound by deep rooted connections on all levels, and especially in the culinary traditions and ingredients. As Spinneys and the Italian Trade Agency continue their journey, their commitment to strengthening economic ties, promoting Italian excellence, and enriching the Lebanese market with new Italian products and brands remains at the heart of their collaboration. Spinneys and the Italian Trade Agency remain dedicated to fostering economic ties, showcasing Italian excellence, and enriching the Lebanese market—ensuring this partnership continues to thrive.
