CICC Members’ Meeting in Eastern China, 16 May Shanghai

The China-Italy Chamber of Commerce (CICC) welcomed company members to its Eastern China Members’ Meeting on May 16 at Casa Ferrari in Shanghai. The event served as a key opportunity for institutional dialogue, strategic updates, and community networking. Over 70 company members joined the event and the opening remarks were delivered by CICC Chairman Lorenzo Riccardi and Giuseppe Cattaneo, President of Ferrari Greater China, who kindly hosted the event.

A keynote speech by Dr. Weisi Xie, Shanghai Director of the Economist Corporate Network, provided valuable insights on "Trade and China Macro Dynamics" followed by a dynamic Q&A session.

Institutional greetings were shared by Tiziana D’Angelo, Consul General of Italy in Shanghai; Giuliano Martini, Deputy Director of ITA-ICE Shanghai; Donato Morea, Head of China and East Asia at SACE; and Gianni Di Giovanni of the European Chamber of Commerce in China.

Chairman Riccardi then presented the CICC 2025–2026 Agenda, outlining an expanded program of joint events, working groups, networking opportunities, and business development initiatives. He emphasized the Chamber’s growing regional network, a stronger digital presence, and efforts to enhance member services. He also introduced the CICC Studies Centre’s key projects—such as the China School, industry-focused newsletters, and joint research with Confindustria—along with the results of two recent surveys. The findings confirmed China’s continued strategic importance for Italian businesses, despite challenges like slower growth and geopolitical tension. Italian firms remain confident in the medium term, especially in sectors like innovation and digital transformation. Riccardi also reviewed advocacy efforts, including the upcoming Double Taxation Agreement (2026), and advocacy activities focusing on social security, enhanced mobility for young professionals, visa policies, and SME support. He concluded by reporting on his recent hearing at the Italian Parliament, where he presented CICC’s priorities and the value of Italy-China economic relations.

Regional updates followed, with Vice Chairman Mauro Maggioni and Board Member Davide Angelibusi highlighting activities across Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Suzhou, and Anhui. Maggioni emphasized a renewed focus on member value through tailored services, visibility initiatives like the "Members Corner," and stronger community engagement.

He also previewed the Panda d’Oro Gala Dinner on June 14 in Shanghai, inviting members to apply for the 2025 awards and explore sponsorship opportunities. He announced the launch of the Asia-Pacific Business Roundtable on June 14—an exclusive pre-Gala event focused on unlocking the potential of Made in Italy in the region.

The meeting concluded with an open forum for members to share feedback and suggestions. In his closing remarks, Chairman Riccardi summarized the key takeaways.