Ecco Chamber
Fortnightly Italian news made in South Africa
II edition August 2026
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Discover
ItalCham's
Annual Directory 2026/2027
ItalCham's Annual Directory
2026/2027
The wait is over! ItalCham's Annual Directory 2026/2027 is here!
Your ultimate guide to businesses, leaders, and opportunities shaping
Italian–South African trade. Packed with valuable insights, this edition opens doors to new partnerships and growth.
Stay ahead, stay connected, and discover who’s who in our thriving
business community.
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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 two-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.
The event will also bring together a selection of prominent Italian and Italy-connected brands, including several valued members of the Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries (ItalCham).
Among the participating companies are Ariston, Italtile, IVECO, MSC Cruises, Pirelli, and Technogym, showcasing their expertise, innovation, and contribution to the strong business relationship between Italy and South Africa.
Exchange Controls and Capital Flow Reform – Business Event
4 September 2026 | Highline Lounge, Courtyard Hotel, Waterfall City
The Nordic-South African Business Association (NSBA), in collaboration with the Italian South African Chamber of Trade and Industries (ItalCham), invites you to an insightful business event exploring South Africa’s exchange controls and the ongoing reform of capital flow regulations.
The session will be presented by Leon Louw, who has dedicated over five decades to promoting economic freedom and reducing regulatory barriers to financial freedom. His experience and perspective will provide valuable insights into the implications of exchange control reform for businesses and international trade.
South Africa’s exchange control framework has long influenced the movement of capital and the way businesses operate across borders. As the country advances its reform process, new opportunities are emerging to facilitate faster, easier and more cost-effective international commerce.
Join fellow business leaders and professionals for an engaging discussion on the future of capital flows in South Africa and what these developments could mean for international businesses.
📍 Venue: Highline Lounge, Courtyard Hotel, Waterfall City
🕐 Registration: From 13:00 | Address will commence at 13:45
Member Fee: R350 per person,
including a welcome drink and finger food lunch
Non-Member Fee: R450 per person,
including a welcome drink and finger food lunch
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
Pétanque and Bocce
Networking
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Join us for a relaxed afternoon of networking, sport and international connection at the Pétanque & Bocce Networking event in Cape Town.
Taking place on 10 September 2026 from 14:30 to 18:00 at the Italian Club of Cape Town, the event brings together members and professionals for an informal opportunity to connect, build relationships and enjoy a friendly game of pétanque and bocce.
📍 Venue: Italian Club of Cape Town, 16 Donegal Street, Rugby, Cape Town
🎟️ Entry: R100 (excl. VAT) – single entry
All levels are welcome!
Organised in collaboration with the French South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries, this is a great opportunity to step away from the usual business setting and network in a fun and social environment.
Come along, meet new people and enjoy an afternoon of sport and networking!
Exclusive Invitation at the
Museum Della Passion with
Roxsure Insurance Brokers
Exclusive Invitation: An Afternoon of Italian Cars, Craft Beer & Networking
ItalCham is pleased to invite its members to an exclusive afternoon hosted by Roxsure Insurance Brokers, in collaboration with the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce.
Taking place at the magnificent Museum Della Passione in Somerset, the event offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a private guided tour of the museum, followed by delicious bites from No Way Jose and exceptional craft beer from Abru Brewery.
Set against one of the region’s most unique backdrops, this is a wonderful opportunity to connect, network and unwind with fellow Chamber members in a relaxed and memorable setting.
📅 Date: Saturday, 3 October 2026
🕦 Time: 11:30 AM for 12:00 PM
📍 Venue: Museum Della Passione, Somerset
Free of charge, exclusive for ItalCham members
RSVP – Italian Chamber Members Only:
enquiries@italcham.co.za
Places are limited, so early RSVP is recommended.
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.
Tickets Sales Early Bird
Italy in Town 2026
This year, Italy in Town moves to the iconic Castle of Good Hope, transforming one of Cape Town’s most historic landmarks into a vibrant Italian festa for two unforgettable days.Stroll along the cobblestone streets infused with the aromas of fresh espresso and wood-fired pizza. Delight yourselves in live Italian music, and savour the timeless allure of festa Italiana.
Join us on 21 & 22 November 2026 and experience the sights, sounds, flavours and traditions of Italy — right here in the heart of Cape Town.
Saturday, 21 November 2026
09:00 to 18:00 Early Bird: R150
Sunday, 22 November 2026
09:00 to 18:00Early Bird: R120
But don’t wait too long!
The Early Bird offer is limited to just 2,000 tickets per day.
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.
TazzinArt Exhibition
An International Celebration of Contemporary Ceramics
ItalCham is pleased to highlight TazzinArt, an international contemporary ceramics exhibition that transforms the iconic espresso cup into a work of art and a symbol of cultural dialogue.
Opening on 15 August at the Rust-en-Vrede Ceramic Museum in Cape Town, the exhibition brings together over 90 unique ceramic cups created by 44 artists from South Africa, Italy and Mexico.
Curated by Donavan Mynhardt, Monica Monaia and Lorenzo Fiorucci, TazzinArt celebrates creativity, craftsmanship and the universal ritual of sharing coffee — using the espresso cup as a bridge between cultures, artistic traditions and communities.
Originally launched in Italy in 2024, TazzinArt makes its South African debut as part of its international journey, bringing together artists from different backgrounds to explore themes of connection, diversity and artistic exchange.
ItalCham is proud to support and share this unique celebration of Italian and international contemporary ceramic art, highlighting the power of culture and creativity to foster meaningful connections between Italy and South Africa.
📍 Rust-en-Vrede Ceramic Museum, Cape Town
📅 15-21 August 2026
Mapei South Africa Commissions New Liquid Plant in Germiston
Mapei South Africa has successfully commissioned a new liquid plant at its Head Office in Germiston, Gauteng, marking a significant investment in manufacturing capacity, innovation and sustainable growth.
The new state-of-the-art facility more than doubles production capacity, enabling up to 100,000 litres per shift with four operators, while using approximately half the electricity of the previous system. The investment also brings important benefits in maintenance efficiency, health and safety, and overall productivity.
The milestone was celebrated with the participation of Robert Bonnici, Regional Director of Mapei Group, and Paul Lowndes, General Manager of Mapei South Africa, highlighting the strong support and global reach of the Mapei Group.
This investment reinforces Mapei’s confidence in the South African and wider SADC markets, strengthening its commitment to meeting growing demand and supporting a more sustainable future.
Funding Opportunity for South African & Lesotho NPOs
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Do you work with or know a credible NPO that could benefit from funding of up to R160,000?
We are sharing this opportunity with organisations and community initiatives working to create meaningful social impact across South Africa and Lesotho.
The call is particularly relevant to NPOs, NGOs, community-based organisations and foundations active in areas such as:
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Women and girls, youth and education
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Skills development and employment
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Child protection and vulnerable communities
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Food security, agriculture and rural development
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Environment and sustainability
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Sport and culture with a social-development focus
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Violence prevention and community development
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For ItalCham members: if your company works with local NPOs or community organisations through CSI, CSR, ESG or sustainability initiatives, we encourage you to share this opportunity with your trusted partners.
We also invite bilateral chambers, institutions, universities, associations and development organisations to help amplify the call among eligible organisations.
Know an organisation that could qualify? Please share this opportunity with them.
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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