Ecco Chamber
Fortnightly Italian news made in South Africa
I edition June 2026
Honouring 80 Years of
La Festa della Repubblica
Chamber's Note
Celebrating the 80th Anniversary
of the Italian Republic
Every year on June 2nd, Italians around the world commemorate one of the most defining moments in modern Italian history: the birth of the Republic in 1946. Following a national referendum, Italians voted to abolish the monarchy in favour of a republic, setting the country on a democratic path grounded in the values of freedom, unity, and identity.
At ItalCham, we are proud to honour this occasion not only as a celebration of Italy’s past and present, but also as a lasting reminder of the strong and enduring ties between Italy and Italian communities around the world.
This year, the 80th anniversary of the Italian Republic was celebrated across South Africa through a series of events that brought together institutions, communities, and businesses in a spirit of unity and cultural pride.
From the elegant celebration hosted by the Consulate General of Italy in Johannesburg on Wednesday 3 June , to the lively Italian Republic Day Festival in Pretoria on Sunday 7 June , the festivities highlighted the richness and diversity of Italian heritage in South Africa.
In addition, two private receptions were held at the Residence of the Ambassador of Italy to South Africa, H.E. Alberto Vecchi, on Tuesday 2 June in Pretoria, and again on Thursday 4 June in Cape Town, in the presence of the Consul of Italy in Cape Town, Giulio Mignacca.
Below, we share highlights from these special occasions, where culture, music, community, and Italian businesses came together to celebrate La Festa della Repubblica.
Festa Della Repubblica
3rd of June – Celebration at the Consulate General of Italy in Johannesburg
On Wednesday, 3rd of June, the Consulate General of Italy in Johannesburg hosted a public celebration to mark the 80th anniversary of the Italian Republic.
The event brought together a large gathering of members of the Italian-South African community, representatives of local institutions, and partners from the business and cultural sectors.
The event honoured a recipient of the Cavaliere title for lifelong dedication to memory and service, with a moving tribute to history and remembrance.
The atmosphere was enriched by the choir Giuseppe Verdi and orchestra from a local school, who brought both national anthems to life. Guests enjoyed exquisite cuisine and endless Aperol Spritz, adding sparkle to the day.
Participating brands included Aperol Spritz and Settebello. Their presence highlighted the strong and continued contribution of Italian innovation and excellence to South Africa’s cultural and economic landscape.
7th of June – The Italian Republic Day Festival:
A Celebration of Italian Excellence
The week of celebrations ended with the vibrant Italian Republic Day Festival, held on 7 June 2026 and hosted by the Italian Club of Pretoria.
Welcoming more than 8,000 visitors, the sold-out event offered an authentic celebration of Italian culture, bringing together music, gastronomy, innovation, and community spirit in a festive atmosphere.
One of the most symbolic moments of the day was the official flag-raising ceremony, conducted by the Italian Military Attaché Office and the Carabinieri of the Embassy of Italy.
As part of the official programme, ItalCham played a key role in showcasing Italian excellence through the curated “Made in Italy” Exhibition Hall. The exhibition celebrated Italy’s world-renowned design, technology, craftsmanship, and lifestyle, featuring prestigious brands such as TechnoGym, Alessi, Carpigiani, Bialetti, and Sodini.
Italian culinary heritage also took centre stage thanks to the collaboration between the Italian Cultural Institute and the Prue Leith Culinary Institute, which presented an engaging live pasta-making challenge. The initiative was supported by ALMA – The School of Italian Culinary Arts in Parma, further strengthening the educational and cultural connections between Italy and South Africa.
The festival experience was enriched by the presence of iconic Italian brands including Ferrari, Ducati, Lamborghini, Italjet, Moto Guzzi, Vespa, Macron, Illy, and Aperol Spritz. More than 25 Italian food vendors delighted visitors with a wide selection of traditional dishes and regional specialties, offering a true taste of Italy.
Thanks to the dedication of the Italian Club of Pretoria and the collaboration of Italian institutions, businesses, and cultural organisations, Pretoria was transformed into a vibrant Italian destination for a day, celebrating the values, traditions, and excellence that make Italy unique.
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Italy-South Africa
Agricultural Business Forum
SACE and SIMEST Join Forces with ItalCham to Support Italian Businesses in South Africa
During the Italy–South Africa Business Forum held in Cape Town on 9 June 2026, SACE, Italy’s Export Credit Agency, and SIMEST, the internationalisation company of the Cassa Depositi e Prestiti Group, signed a cooperation agreement with the Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries (ItalCham).
The partnership aims to strengthen the presence of Italian businesses in South Africa and support their expansion across one of the continent’s most strategic markets. The agreement forms part of a broader commitment by SACE and SIMEST to foster economic cooperation between Italy and Africa, while creating new opportunities for trade, investment and sustainable growth.
Through this collaboration, Italian companies will gain access to a range of financial, insurance and advisory solutions designed to facilitate internationalisation and improve competitiveness abroad. Particular emphasis will be placed on supporting export activities through tools such as Supplier Credit, enabling Italian companies to offer competitive financing solutions to international buyers.
At the same time, SIMEST will continue to promote initiatives under the Mattei Plan for Africa, including measures aimed at supporting investments, skills development and long-term business partnerships throughout the continent.
The three organisations will work closely together to foster stronger connections between Italian and South African companies. The collaboration will also facilitate the exchange of market intelligence and strategic information, helping businesses identify opportunities and navigate the local business environment more effectively.
Commenting on the agreement, representatives of SACE, SIMEST and ItalCham highlighted the importance of South Africa as a gateway to the wider African market and reaffirmed their shared commitment to supporting sustainable, mutually beneficial economic partnerships. Through its established presence and extensive local network, ItalCham will continue to serve as a key partner for companies seeking to develop business opportunities and strengthen commercial ties between Italy and South Africa.
For the full press release please click the link below:
Multi-Chamber Speed Networking Event
Join us for an exclusive Multi-Chamber Speed Networking Event for an evening of meaningful connections and insightful dialogue.
With keynote speaker David Ansara (CEO, Free Market Foundation), this is a unique opportunity to engage with business leaders, expand your network, and explore collaboration between Europe and South Africa.
If you are interested please contact Anna-Maria at enquiries@italcham.co.za to secure your spot.
Limited spaces available – don’t miss out!
Call for Vendors:
Italy in Town 2026
Italy in Town is back! and this year, we’re taking it to an iconic new level!
📍 New Venue: Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town
📅 Dates: 21–22 November 2026
We are seeking authentic Italian brands and products to be part of a vibrant weekend celebrating the very best of Italy — from traditional cuisine and artisanal goods to fashion, design, and lifestyle.
This is a unique opportunity to showcase genuine Italian excellence, connect with a diverse and engaged audience, and position your brand within one of Cape Town’s most anticipated cultural events.
If your offering reflects true Italian heritage, quality, and craftsmanship, we would love to hear from you.
Join us in bringing Italy to life in Cape Town.
For official updates and all the latest news around
the Italy in Town Festival, be sure to visit our
Italy in Town Facebook and Instagram pages,
by clicking the icons above.
Annual Directory 2026/2027 - Advertising Rates
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Secure your company’s presence in the upcoming
2026/2027 ItalCham Annual Directory!
As the Chamber’s flagship publication, the Directory is distributed to members, partners, and key stakeholders and shared digitally throughout the year, giving your brand long-lasting visibility.
Booking Deadline: 12 June 2026
To confirm your placement in the 2026/2027 Annual Directory contact accounts@italcham.co.za
ECOMONDO 2025
Hosted Buyers Programme
Join the Italian-South African Chamber’s hosted delegation to ECOMONDO 2026, Europe’s benchmark event for the green, blue and circular economy, organized by IEG – Italian Exhibition Group. Following the success of our 2023, 2024, and 2025 missions, we are now recruiting 10 South African companies to visit this premier international exhibition.
Here's what ECOMONDO 2025 looked like:
*1,850 exhibitors
*International operators from more than 122 countries
*750 international hosted buyers and delegates
*Over 240 conferences and workshops
Why Join?
ECOMONDO 2026 will showcase a renewed and expanded format with 7 thematic areas and 6 exhibition districts, covering the full spectrum of environmental technologies and green innovation:
Circular and Regenerative Bio-Economy
Environmental Monitoring & Earth Observation
ECOMONDO is the leading platform to meet key players in the green and circular economy and discover the latest sustainable technologies and solutions. The 2026 edition will focus on today’s most urgent environmental challenges, bringing together innovation, business opportunities, and expert insights through a rich exhibition and a high-level conference programme.
Buyers Programme - What’s Included:
Selected companies will receive the following benefits:
• 3-night hotel accommodation (B&B treatment, 4-start hotel) for 1 buyer per company
• Cash reimbursement of maximum € 300,00 as partial coverage of the flight ticket for 1 buyer per company
• Transfers Bologna Airport – Hotel / Hotel – Bologna Airport
• Daily transfer from the hotel to the expo venue, and back
• Free entrance ticket
• Lunch at the exhibition centre
Buyers will have to undertake:
• To schedule at least 10 B2B meetings with Ecomondo exhibitors using the online “My Agenda by IEG” platform. These 30-minute meetings will take place on 05 November 2026. If the quota is not met in advance, additional appointments must be arranged directly at the expo;
• To submit the appointment diary, duly completed and signed by all exhibitors met;
• To complete an online satisfaction survey at the end of the meetings;
• To return to the exhibition on November 7 to explore additional companies of interest.
Apply by 31 August 2026
Limited spots available – applications will close as soon as the delegation reaches full capacity.
Eligibility Criteria
- The company representative who will attend Ecomondo must be a decision maker.
- All companies with a turnover of at least ZAR 20.000.000 or with concrete projects in progress or in the start-up phase can apply. The project must be well explained in the dedicated section of the application form.
For more information:
📧 italy@italcham.co.za
📞 Cell: +27 83 325 7804 | WhatsApp: +27 83 325 7804
Break Into India’s Booming
Pet Market – PetBridge 2026
Applications Now Open
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25–26 November 2026 | Mumbai, India
PetBridge 2026 is India’s first fully B2B exhibition dedicated to the pet supplies industry and distribution — powered by Zoomark and BolognaFiere.
Positioned at the heart of one of the world’s fastest-growing pet markets, PetBridge offers South African companies direct access to a $3.6 billion industry expected to double by 2028.
Why exhibit?
✔ Connect with India’s most influential trade buyers through pre-scheduled B2B meetings
✔ Benefit from Zoomark’s international network
✔ Gain visibility within the dedicated International Hub
✔ Access tailored support services for international exhibitors
For full information and participation details, please visit the ItalCham website.
Take Your Brand to Europe
at Zoomark 2027
Early Bird Rates Now Available
Recognised as Europe’s leading B2B platform for pet food and pet care, Zoomark 2027 brings together innovation, international buyers and key industry players under one roof.
With over 30,800 visitors and 1,260 exhibitors (2025 edition), Zoomark continues to expand its global reach — offering direct access to the European and international pet market.
Why exhibit?
✔ Access the European & global market
✔ Connect with decision-makers actively sourcing new products and partnerships
✔ Meet top global buyers through tailored matchmaking
Early Bird exhibition rates are available until 30 June 2026.
Discover how to participate and access full details below.
Introducing Our New Member:
Safari Adv
A bridge between Italy and South Africa through tailor-made travel experiences
Safari ADV Ltd is an Italian-owned tour operator and DMC with a strong operational presence in South Africa, based in Cape Town. We specialise in creating tailor-made travel experiences across Southern and Eastern Africa.
For years, we have been supporting European travellers particularly Italians in discovering South Africa and Southern Africa through customised journeys that combine safaris, nature, culture, beach destinations and authentic experiences.
We mainly operate in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Tanzania, offering personalised itineraries for individual travellers, families, honeymooners and small groups.
Our direct knowledge of the destinations, a consolidated network of local suppliers and our operational presence on the ground allow us to provide highly personalised services, continuous assistance and efficient travel planning, always maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and responsible tourism.
Alongside our inbound activity to Southern Africa, Safari ADV Ltd also supports South African residents wishing to travel to Italy and Europe, assisting with flight bookings, accommodation and selected travel services for both leisure and business travel.
In particular, we support South African professionals and companies travelling to Italy for trade fairs, business meetings and industry events, offering assistance with the logistical organisation of their trips.
Our mission is to create authentic travel experiences and contribute to strengthening the connection between Italy and South Africa through tourism, cultural exchange and business relationships between the two countries.
Advanced Corporate Solutions:
The 4 Pillars for the Protection
of Intellectual Property
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New Available Job Post:
Front of House Manager / Supervisor - The Woodlands Eatery - CPT
View job vacancies on the SMILE website
via this link - CLICK HERE
If you are currently hiring,
Please take a look at SMILE-vetted candidates HERE
Alla prossima!