MPEDA-led delegation engages Italian counterparts, paving the way for increased marine product exports and collaborative ventures in the European market.
Rome, Italy | March 29, 2025 – A spirit of optimism and strategic partnership marked the India-Italy Business Meet on Marine Products, successfully convened on March 27-28, 2025, at the distinguished Hotel Anantara Palazzo Naiadi in Rome. This significant event, a joint initiative by the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA), the Embassy of India in Rome, and Assoittica Italia, provided a crucial platform for deepening bilateral trade relations and unlocking new opportunities in the seafood sector.
Setting a positive precedent even before formal discussions, Indian delegates engaged in warm, informal exchanges with their Italian counterparts, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie. The Business Meet was meticulously designed to explore the full spectrum of seafood trade prospects between the two nations, including opportunities for seafood import and re-export through India, potential investment avenues, and comprehensive strategies to significantly enhance India’s marine product exports to Italy.
Inaugural Session Sets a Collaborative Tone
The formal commencement of the Business Meet featured an influential opening session with distinguished speakers from both nations. Key addresses from the Italian side were delivered by:
- Prof. Maria Luisa Cortesi, President, Assoittica Italia
- Mr. Giuseppe Lediani, Director, Ministry of Health, Italy
- Dr. Giuseppe Palma, Secretary, Assoittica Italia, Rome
Their contributions provided valuable context and highlighted Italy’s perspective on strengthening seafood trade partnerships.
Technical Sessions Offer Deep Dives and Key Insights
The subsequent technical sessions provided a forum for detailed presentations and expert discussions. Representing Italy, compelling presentations were made by:
- Dr. Andrea Maroni Ponti, from the Ministry of Health, Italy, focusing on Control and Surveillance of Rabies, Bee Diseases, Wild Animals, and Aquaculture.
- Mr. Aniello Anastasio, President, Italian Veterinary Association.
From the Indian delegation, Dr. P. Jayagopal, Deputy Director, MPEDA, delivered a comprehensive presentation, including an impactful video showcasing the diversity and quality of Indian seafood available for export. Dr. Jayagopal also extended formal thanks to the Embassy of India for its pivotal role in organizing the meet. Further articulating India’s position and aspirations were:
- Amb. Ms. Vani Rao, Ambassador, Embassy of India, Rome, Italy
- Mr. Jagadish V Fofandi, Former National President, Seafood Exporters Association of India (SEAI)
- Shri. Akash Gupta, Counsellor (Commerce), Embassy of India, Rome, Italy
B2B Meetings: The Commercial Core of the Engagement
A central and highly productive component of the two-day event was the series of Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings. These sessions facilitated direct engagement between 10 top Indian seafood exporters and leading Italian importers and processors. The focused interactions allowed for in-depth discussions on specific trade opportunities and the practicalities of forging new commercial partnerships.
The atmosphere during these B2B encounters was notably vibrant. As aptly captured, “The opportunities are enormous, hopes are high, and the excitement is overwhelming.” This palpable enthusiasm underscores the significant potential for mutual growth and the collective ambition to “build this business and achieve significant milestones in seafood trade.”
The India-Italy Business Meet on Marine Products has successfully reinforced the foundations for an expanded and more dynamic trade relationship. MPEDA, in concert with its esteemed partners, remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering such strategic international engagements, which are vital for propelling India’s flourishing seafood export sector to new global heights.