Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani is in Tuscany today for the Italy-Latin America Business Forum, organized in Prato jointly by the Foreign Ministry and IILA, with the support of the Italian Trade Agency (ITA).
The event is attended by over 160 representatives of the Italian private sector and Latin American companies, as well as representatives of industrial unions from various countries in the region and the main Italian business associations. Through thematic sessions dedicated to sectors with the greatest potential for internationalization – including mechanical engineering, chemical-pharmaceutical, clothing-footwear, and agribusiness – the initiative will foster discussion between institutions and companies on the opportunities arising from the EU-Mercosur Free Trade Agreement, ahead of its entry into force on May 1.
Trade between Italy and Latin America and the Caribbean has grown significantly in recent years, reaching €34 billion in 2025, with a positive balance of €6.5 billion. In this context, the EU-Mercosur Agreement could contribute to further strengthening trade and expanding opportunities for Italian production chains.
Minister Tajani will speak in the afternoon session. During the Forum, the Minister will hold bilateral meetings with the Vice President of the Republic of El Salvador, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uruguay, and the Minister of Industry and Trade of Venezuela to deepen and strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in the economic and justice sectors, as well as addressing key regional and international priorities.
