RECAP | F&B Working Group Talk and Networking, 26.03, Beijing

On March 26, 2025, the China-Italy Chamber of Commerce (CICC) and its Food and Beverage Working Group (F&BWG) hosted the “F&B Working Group Talk and Networking Aperitif” at SEDIMENT in Beijing. This event was the first gathering opportunity dedicated to F&B operators in Beijing, providing a platform for industry professionals to connect, share insights, and explore synergies.

Event Highlights

• Growth in Italian F&B Exports to China: Davide Liberati, AgriFood Attache’ at the Embassy of Italy to the P.R.C., presented an overview of the Italian F&B sector in China. In 2024, Italian agri-food exports to China reached 604 million euros, marking an increase of 11.8% compared to the previous year. Key growth areas included dairy products, pasta, condiments, reflecting the strong demand for Italian products in China.
• Market Access Challenges: Liberati highlighted the ongoing negotiations for bilateral protocols on flour, apples, and pears, and the current restrictions on Italian pork and beef due to the outbreak of African Swine Fever and bluetongue disease.
• Opportunities in the Chinese Market: Despite challenge, there is potential for growth in the Chinese market, particularly in the Ho.Re.Ca channel, Italian restaurants, large-scale retail trade, e-commerce, and social media.
• F&B Working Group (F&BWG) Event Program and Common Actions were presented by Fabio Falanga, Vice-Coordinator of the F&BWG, including promoting Italian F&B products in China and organizing joint promotional activities.
• Open Discussion and Networking Aperitif: The event concluded with an open discussion and networking aperitif, where attendees, including F&B operators, importers, restaurant owners, and industry professionals had the opportunity to connect, share experiences, and explore potential collaborations.

Francesco Innocenti, CICC Board Member North of China

Davide Liberati, AgriFood Attache’ at the Embassy of Italy to the P.R.C.

Fabio Falanga, Vice-Coordinator of CICC F&B Working Group

The China-Italy Chamber of Commerce thanks SEDIMENT for hosting the event and all attendees for their participation.

As always, the CICC continues to support Italian companies with targeted events that promote Made in Italy and provide opportunities for updates, networking, and strengthening relationships with local authorities.