Ecco Chamber
Fortnightly Italian news made in South Africa
I edition August 2026
Introducing Italy in Town
Pretoria Edition
Introducing
Italy in Town Pretoria
Made in Italy Meets Pretoria: F1, Gastronomy, Fashion & Automotive
The Embassy of Italy in Pretoria, in partnership with Menlyn Maine Precinct, proudly presents Italy in Town – Pretoria Edition, a three-day celebration of Italian excellence taking place from 5–6 September 2026. Held during the iconic Formula 1 Italian Grand Prix weekend in Monza, the event brings the very best of Made in Italy to the heart of Gauteng.
Visitors will enjoy an immersive experience featuring Italian gastronomy, fine wines, fashion, design, music, and world-renowned automotive brands. Highlights include displays of iconic vehicles such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Ducati, Vespa, Lambretta, and Italjet, live screenings of the Monza Grand Prix, racing simulators, authentic Italian food and wine experiences, chef demonstrations, and cultural performances.
More than a public festival, Italy in Town is a platform to strengthen cultural, and business ties between Italy and South Africa while showcasing the excellence and innovation that define the Made in Italy brand.
Join us at Menlyn Maine Precinct from 5–6 September 2026 and experience the passion, style, and creativity of Italy.
📢 CALL FOR VENDORS – JOIN US!
Are you a brand, food vendor, producer, or business that embodies the passion, style, and quality of Made in Italy? We are looking for vendors to be part of this premier showcase.
Don't miss the opportunity to connect with thousands of visitors and showcase your brand on an international platform!
📌 Key Details:
📅 Application Deadline: Friday, 7 August 2026
📧 How to Apply: Complete the Form below and contact accounts@italcham.co.za
Be part of the biggest celebration of Italian style in Gauteng!
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EU & DTIC Dialogue on B-BBEE Amendments & Transformation Fund
ItalCham in collaboration with the Delegation of the European Union and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), invites our business community to a high-level dialogue session on the proposed changes to
South Africa’s B-BBEE Codes and the rollout of the Transformation Fund.
This dialogue offers European businesses and SMEs a key platform to engage directly with the DTIC on regulatory updates, business implications, and the implementation of the Clean Trade and Investment Partnership.
Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, 8 September 2026
Time:
09:00 – 09:30: Registration
09:30 – 12:00: Main Session (Keynotes, Panel Discussion & Q&A)
12:00 – 13:30: Networking & Light Buffet Lunch
Venue: Johannesburg (Exact location to be confirmed)
Format: Presentation by DTIC, European Business Panel Debate, and Moderated Q&A
How to Attend & Selection Process
Please Note: Space is strictly limited to 100 participants. Due to high demand, a selection process will be conducted among all applicants across all sectors (both SMEs and large corporations).
If you are interested in attending, please submit your expression of interest as soon as possible by emailing: sg@italcham.co.za
Save the Date
European Chambers'
6th Annual Golf Day 2026
SAVE THE DATE | EUROPEAN CHAMBERS' 6TH ANNUAL GOLF DAY 2026
The Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries is proud to once again join fellow European Chambers of Commerce for the 6th Annual European Chambers' Golf Day, taking place on 20 October 2026 at Randpark Golf Club, Johannesburg.
This flagship event brings together business leaders and professionals for a day of networking, collaboration and friendly competition, celebrating the strength of the European business community in South Africa.
The Save the Date and 2026 Sponsorship Brochure are now available, offering companies the opportunity to showcase their brand and connect with a high-profile business audience.
Date: 20 October 2026
Venue: Randpark Golf Club, Johannesburg
Limited Fourballs & Sponsorship Opportunities
Don't miss the opportunity to be part of one of the year's premier business networking events. A limited number of fourballs and sponsorship packages are available, offering excellent visibility and valuable networking opportunities throughout the day.
Secure your fourball or sponsorship package today before availability runs out. Sponsorship bookings close on 11 September 2026, while fourball registrations close on 18 September 2026.
Ready to elevate your brand? Contact Patricia today:
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.
ItalCham
Business Excellence Awards
Call for Nominations 2027
Following the success of the 2026 ItalCham Business Excellence Awards, we are pleased to open the first round of nominations for the 2027 edition.
The Business Excellence Awards (BEAs) continue to honour individuals and enterprises who embody excellence, innovation, and leadership within the Italian-South African business community.
At this stage, we are gathering early nominations and suggestions for professionals or companies you believe should be considered for recognition next year. This is a preliminary step to help us identify outstanding candidates.
As in previous years, all nominations received will be carefully reviewed by a professional and independent panel.
To submit a nomination, please complete the form by clicking the button below.
Settebello
"Best Pizza in Joburg"
Settebello Crowned Winner of 947’s "Best Pizza in Joburg"!
We are proud to announce that Settebello Italian Restaurant has been named the winner of the 947 "Best Pizza in Joburg" search, hosted by Anele and the Club with Old Mutual Insure.
Officially recognized by the Associazione Pizzaiuoli Napoletani (APN), Settebello is dedicated to sharing authentic Neapolitan pizza and true Italian hospitality with Johannesburg. This prestigious award celebrates a commitment to quality ingredients such as Caputo Flour, Ciao Tomatoes, and Puglia Cheese slow dough fermentation, and traditional craftsmanship.
If you would like to read the full press release, press the button below:
Introducing Our New Member:
Puglia Cheese
Founded in Cape Town in June 2010 by Davide, Puglia Cheese was born from a passion for authentic Italian cheese-making and a vision to bring traditional Apulian flavours to South Africa. Recognising a gap in the market for premium-quality mozzarella and fresh artisanal cheeses, we set out to create products that reflect true Italian craftsmanship, exceptional flavour and uncompromising quality.
As South Africa's pioneering producer of authentic Burrata, Puglia Cheese has built its reputation on handcrafted excellence. Specialising in fresh mozzarella, burrata and other artisanal dairy products, every cheese is made using carefully selected local ingredients and time-honoured Italian techniques.
At the heart of Puglia Cheese is a hands-on, traditional production process. From blending rennet to stretching mozzarella, nearly every step is carried out manually by a skilled and dedicated team, ensuring consistency, authenticity and attention to detail in every product.
Since 2011, Puglia Cheese has earned multiple awards, including the prestigious title of South African Champions - an achievement that reflects our dedication to quality and craftsmanship.
Today, we proudly supply leading Italian restaurants, specialty retailers and supermarkets in Cape Town and across South Africa, bringing exceptional Italian-style cheeses to tables nationwide and overseas. Puglia group now also has a second Puglia Cheese dairy factory in Pretoria and recently opened in Somerset West the Osteria Pizza Cheese bar (the first dedicated cheese bar in South Africa) and Adriatico Cucina Mediterranea.
Contact Info:
Address: Waterkloof Wine Farm, Somerset West,7130
Sinoville Centre, Sinoville. Pretoria.
Landline: Cape Town (021) 556 7188,Pretoria: 012 010 0047
Website: Puglia Cheese — Handmade in South Africa since 2010
Introducing Our New Member:
Wings group
Wings Group is the South African agency for global brands in the food and appliance sectors. We represent Italian heritage brands such as Bialetti, Loacker and Lavazza. Our representation across sectors has stemmed from our desire to enable South Africans to have access to global brands (KitchenAid, Sage, Ritter Sport, Dilmah Tea etc) and enjoy the best food and beverage possible.
Contact Info:
Address: 50 Milner St, Metro Industrial Twp,
Cape Town, 7405, Sudafrica
Landline:
Phone: +27 21 555 0700
Bialetti Italia Promotion
Enjoy 15% Off Bialetti Products! ☕✨
Upgrade your daily coffee ritual with Bialetti! Use the exclusive promo code ItalChamLess15 at checkout on www.bialettiafrica.com to enjoy 15% off your purchase.
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Valid until: December 2026 (One purchase per customer)
🛒 Interested in bulk Bialetti orders?
Reach out directly to hello@wingsgroup.co.za for assistance and custom pricing.
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ECOMONDO 2026
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 6 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-star 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
ECOMONDO 2026
in Collaboration with Premier Industry Partners
This year ItalCham is proud to collaborate with premier industry partners for ECOMONDO 2026, Europe’s leading international benchmark for ecological transition, the circular economy, and green technologies.
To offer an even richer and more strategic networking opportunity, this year we are proud to we are proud to collaborate with the following industry partners:
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GreenCape: A leading organization driving the growth of the green economy in South Africa, supporting businesses in adopting sustainable solutions and unlocking green investments.
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Southern African Biogas Industry Association (SABIA): The cornerstone association dedicated to advancing the biogas sector and bio-energy technologies across Southern Africa.
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Metal Recyclers Association of South Africa (MRA): The national body promoting best practices, resource efficiency, and sustainable innovation within the metal recycling industry.
Why Participate in ECOMONDO 2026?
Joining ECOMONDO puts your business at the forefront of the global sustainability transformation. It is an unmissable platform to:
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Explore Cutting-Edge Innovation: Gain direct access to groundbreaking developments in waste management, renewable energy, resource recovery, and ecosystem restoration.
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Expand Your Global Network: Connect with international buyers, industry leaders, investors, and key institutional figures to build high-impact commercial partnerships.
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Access Industry Expertise: Attend world-class conferences and panel discussions to stay ahead of market trends, environmental policies, and sustainable business models.
Join us and our strategic partners as we lead the charge toward a more sustainable and integrated industrial future.
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
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.
Vacancy Announcement:
Italian Consulate General, Johannesburg
The Consulate General of Italy in Johannesburg invites applications for the position of Driver – Messenger – Switchboard Operator.
Applications must be submitted by 25 August 2026, using the official application form available on the website of the Consulate General of Italy in Johannesburg, and below.
The completed and signed application form must be submitted exclusively by e-mail to: johannesburg.segr@esteri.it .
For the full vacancy notice, eligibility requirements, and application form, please visit the website of the Consulate General of Italy in Johannesburg.
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Italian Culinary School
Opportunity for Italian Chefs
Culinary Exchange Program
Opportunity for Italian Chefs: Culinary Exchange Program in Johannesburg, South Africa
The Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries is currently seeking a talented, passionate Italian Chef for a 2 to 3-month professional placement at a renowned Italian restaurant in Johannesburg, South Africa.
This initiative aims to deliver an authentic Italian dining experience by collaborating closely with the local kitchen team and elevating the restaurant's culinary identity.
Key Responsibilities & Candidate Profile
We are looking for a candidate who brings both technical expertise and strong interpersonal skills:
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Background: Proven experience in traditional Italian cuisine.
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Innovation: Ability to refine existing menus, introduce new dishes, and elevate presentation.
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Teamwork: A collaborative mindset to work alongside the local brigata, sharing knowledge, techniques, and culinary traditions.
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Guest Engagement: A warm, outgoing personality who enjoys interacting with guests.
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Events & Culture: Availability to participate in themed evenings, tastings, wine pairings, and special events celebrating Italian gastronomy.
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Language Skills: Native Italian speaker (basic English is a strong advantage).
Offer & Compensation
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Duration: Approx. 2–3 months
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Remuneration: Estimated €2,500 – €3,000 per month (commensurate with experience)
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Covered Expenses: Flights, accommodation, visa processing, and core travel expenses fully covered by the host restaurant.
How to Apply & Share: If you or someone in your network would be a great fit for this opportunity, please submit:
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An updated Curriculum Vitae
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Photos or videos showcasing signature dishes or live kitchen/event work (if available)
To apply or enquire: Please reply directly to this email or send your application to: italcham@italcham.co.za
job board
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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!
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