ICCI Strengthening Bilateral Business Cooperation between Regione Autonoma Friuli Venezia Giulia and India

On March 28, 2025, the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Italy (ICCI), in collaboration with the Consulate General of India in Milan, successfully hosted a high-level business workshop at the Camera di Commercio di Pordenone-Udine. The event convened key institutional and business representatives from the Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) region, focusing on enhancing economic ties and exploring opportunities in the dynamic Indian market.

Key Insights from the Workshop

• Giovanni Da Pozzo, President of the Chamber, emphasized FVG’s strategic role as a privileged economic and cultural partner for India, highlighting the region’s potential in fostering bilateral relations.
• Omar Londero, Head of Udine’s Promos Italia office, presented data on FVG’s top exports to India—steel, machinery, and furniture—pointing to the strong commercial compatibility between the two regions.
• Hon. Isabella De Monte, representing the Trieste Summit with Alberto Pasino, spoke about the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). She emphasized how the Port of Trieste is set to become a linchpin in connecting Indian goods to European markets, reaffirming Trieste’s role as a key logistical and maritime hub.
• Michele Nencioni, General Director of Confindustria Udine, described FVG’s robust industrial base with over 8,500 companies and an export-driven economy generating 42.3% of its GDP. Notably, 46% of exports go outside the EU, with thriving sectors such as metal products, machinery, food & beverages, and chemicals.
• Lavanya Kumar, Consul General of India in Milan, outlined India’s growing economic momentum with targeted sectors for investment including digital infrastructure, green energy, and industrial innovation. She also emphasized India’s liberal FDI policies and major reforms in logistics and taxation.
• Anna Mareschi Danieli, from the Danieli Group, shared their successful journey in India, detailing the company’s projects and the importance of mutual industrial cooperation between India and Italy.
• Representatives from Cherry Bank — Vincenzo Galileo, Roberta Maggiolo, and Luca Vezzaro — discussed the banking sector’s role in facilitating Indo-Italian trade and investment. They presented international financial instruments and services crucial for companies looking to scale across borders.
• Luciano Pettoello Mantovani, Secretary General of ICCI, emphasized the need to boost Italian investments in India, with a special focus on the IMEC Corridor and Trieste’s potential as Europe’s entry point for Indian exports.

Media Coverage and Strategic Recognition

The event received notable media attention, underscoring its growing relevance:

• Il Friuli highlighted President Da Pozzo’s remarks on Friuli Venezia Giulia as a cultural and economic bridge with India, and the value of strengthening trade and institutional ties.
• ShipMag covered India’s growing role in international maritime trade, spotlighting the Port of Trieste as a future cornerstone in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

These features confirm that FVG and India are entering a promising phase of cooperation, grounded in shared commercial interests and long-term strategic vision.

Additional Insights: Wine Market Snapshot

To complement the discussions, ICCI prepared a snapshot of the Indian wine market, illustrating growing consumption trends and the rising interest in Italian wine labels. With India’s wine industry expected to grow at double digits annually, regions like Friuli Venezia Giulia—renowned for their Prosecco and premium varietals—are well-positioned to increase exports to this emerging market.

Gratitude and Next Steps

We thank all speakers, institutions, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of this event. Their insights and collaboration play a key role in shaping a stronger Indo-Italian business alliance.

For updates and to explore business opportunities in India, follow the Indian Chamber of Commerce in Italy on LinkedIn or visit our official website.