Economic Watch: Italian exhibitors at consumer expo keen to expand markets in China

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni makes a video speech at the opening ceremony of the third China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, capital city of south China's Hainan Province, April 10, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Zecong)

ROME, April 12 (Xinhua) -- Exhibitors from Italy, the guest of honor at the ongoing third China International Consumer Products Expo being held in Haikou, capital city of southern China's Hainan Province, are keen to expand their markets in China.

PALATABLE ITALIAN RICE

Acquerello, a high-end Italian rice producer among the more than 100 Italian brands showcasing their products at the event, is looking forward to gracing the tables of Chinese consumers and sharing the "rice culture" with them.

In the eyes of the company's founder, Pietro Rondolino, China is the biggest potential overseas market and the biggest opportunity to promote its products. "China has a long history and a rich food culture, and we have a better chance of finding recipes to match our products there than anywhere else in the world."

"We expect this expo to feature not only advanced technological products but also cultural and natural elements that can shine because today's world needs to understand China's historical culture and enhance the presence of natural elements," he said.

Rondolino said that China's influence is pivotal for the global economy, and the world has witnessed the positive changes brought about by China. He believes his products can succeed in the Chinese market.

ESPRESSO GAINING FOOTHOLD

Italian coffee giant Illycaffe has been doing business in China for many years. For Violante Avogadro, the company's chief communications officer, the consumer expo in Hainan is still "an excellent stage" that will help more Chinese consumers discover and appreciate the quality and potential of Italian coffee.

Avogadro believes that for every Italian brand, the Chinese market is crucial, noting that they would love Chinese consumers to discover the full potential and quality of the brand.

In an exclusive interview with Xinhua earlier this year, the company's CEO Christina Scocchia said that China's booming coffee market is the best choice for the business exploring overseas markets. Italian coffee has listed expanding its market share in China as one of its core goals, hoping to gain a firm foothold before the Chinese coffee market fully matures.

 A staff member (R) introduces a piece of Italian jewelry in the Italy pavilion at the third China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) in Haikou, capital city of south China's Hainan Province, April 11, 2023.  (Xinhua/Pu Xiaoxu)

HIGH-END BRANDS INRUSH

Altagamma, an Italian foundation of luxury brands, attends the expo with 75 of its high-end brands, including Gucci, Maserati, Lamborghini and Ducati.

"The status of guest of honor allows us to exhibit on an unprecedented scale," said Stefania Lazzaroni, general manager of Altagamma, in an exclusive interview with Xinhua.

According to Lazzaroni, the Chinese market represents a unique opportunity, and the expo is an excellent opportunity for the foundation and its brands to strengthen ties with key Chinese investors and showcase their brand image and culture.

"The scale and growth of China's high-end consumer market are difficult to achieve in other countries," Lazzaroni said, adding that a "group" participation in the expo is therefore a perfect choice for Italian high-end brands to strengthen their ties with the Chinese market.