Ecco Chamber
Fortnightly Italian news made in South Africa
II edition February 2026
The Stage is Set:
ItalCham Business Excellence Awards 2026
​ItalCham Business Excellence Awards 2026 – Save the Date
The Business Excellence Awards (BEAs) celebrate more than success — they recognise the visionaries, innovators, and leaders shaping the future of the Italian–South African business landscape.
Save the Date: 15 May 2026 at the elegant @Sandton Hotel,
Dress code: Black & White.
Guests can look forward to an elegant evening, complemented by special opera entertainment by LoveLine.
Following the success of the 2025 ItalCham Business Excellence Awards (link this to the website page Business Excellence Awards), nominations are still open for the 2026 edition.
We invite nominations for Italian/SA entrepreneurs and companies, as well as South African Italian/SA entrepreneurs and companies with a strong link to Italy — whether through Italian products, technology, equipment, or expertise. A single nomination is sufficient for an individual or company to be considered.
Make your move. Nominate today.
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​Nominations close on 28 February 2026
​The Global Gateway
The Global Gateway is the European Union’s flagship strategy to boost smart, clean and secure connections worldwide. Launched in 2021, the initiative aims to mobilise up to €300 billion in investments between 2021 and 2027, supporting high-quality infrastructure projects that are sustainable, transparent and aligned with international standards.
Global Gateway focuses on key strategic sectors, including:
• Climate and energy transition
• Sustainable and smart transport
• Artificial intelligence and secure digital infrastructure
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Through a strong Team Europe approach, the programme brings together EU institutions, Member States, development finance institutions and the private sector to deliver impactful projects across Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, the Middle East, and neighbouring regions.
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More than a funding programme, Global Gateway represents a long-term partnership model, designed to reduce global investment gaps, strengthen local value chains, promote innovation, and create sustainable growth opportunities for both partner countries and European businesses.
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What This Means for Your Business
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Global Gateway creates concrete opportunities for EU companies to contribute expertise, technology and innovation to large-scale international projects. Whether in renewable energy, smart mobility, digital infrastructure, sustainable urban development or healthcare systems, European businesses play a central role in shaping these initiatives.
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As a Chamber, we are committed to supporting our members in identifying and accessing Global Gateway opportunities.
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If you believe your company has a project that could align with the Global Gateway priorities, or if you would like to explore potential partnerships and funding opportunities, we encourage you to get in touch.
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Let’s work together to position your business within one of the EU’s most strategic global initiatives.
Italy Takes Centre Stage at the Investec SA Open:
Golf & Luxury Travel Promotion
From 21 February to 1 March 2026, the Consulate of Italy in Cape Town and ItalCham will lead a high-profile tourism and territorial promotion initiative in Stellenbosch and the Winelands, focused on golf tourism and the luxury travel segment.
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The initiative will be developed in partnership with the Investec SA Open Championship, a major international sporting event attracting over 30,000 visitors, including golf enthusiasts, business leaders, entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals. This represents an exceptional platform to position Italy as a premium destination for integrated experiences combining golf, luxury hospitality, wine & gastronomy, culture and lifestyle.
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ItalCham will host a dedicated Italy stand in collaboration with AssoLombarda within the tournament village, featuring interactive and experiential activations, and will also participate in an exclusive evening reception organised by the Italian Consulate in Cape Town for selected guests in the Stellenbosch area. The programme will further include an informative session on Italy’s Residence and Investment Programmes (Golden Visa and Investor Visa) for South African citizens.
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​Assolombarda is one of Italy’s leading business associations, representing over 7,000 companies and approximately 440,000 employees across the Metropolitan City of Milan and the provinces of Lodi, Monza and Brianza, and Pavia.
In partnership with the Italian Golf Federation, Assolombarda is working to position golf tourism in Lombardy as a strategic lever for the promotion of the region as a whole. The objective is not only to enhance its golf courses, but to showcase the broader ecosystem — including cultural landmarks, hospitality, local enterprises and the entire value chain connected to the territory.
Through Open Horizons, this vision translates into a collaborative model where the golf sector acts as a coordinated network of public and private stakeholders, presenting itself internationally as an integrated system capable of generating sustainable economic value and long-term impact across the region.” as they are sponsoring the italian corner for us
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We are looking forward to creating visibility and concrete opportunities for Italy and its stakeholders.
Navigating the draft
B-BBEE amendments &
the transformation fund
Italcham is pleased to invite its valued members to an exclusive engagement hosted in collaboration with Siyakha Consulting, taking place on 27 February 2026 from 09h00 to 12h00 at the MSC Cruises Auditorium, 54 Maxwell Drive, Woodmead.
This closed-session discussion will unpack the draft B-BBEE amendments and the proposed Transformation Fund, currently in the 60-day public commentary phase, and explore the practical implications for businesses operating in South Africa.
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Led by the Chief Director of the dtic, Mr Jacob Maphutha, and his team, the session will provide members with direct access to authoritative insights, clarity on proposed changes, and guidance on how to prepare, respond, and position their organisations strategically. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of compliance expectations, potential risks and opportunities, and the broader transformation landscape.
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This engagement is particularly recommended for CEOs, Managing Directors, Transformation and B-BBEE Managers, HR Executives, Compliance Officers, Finance Directors, and business owners responsible for governance and regulatory strategy.
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Please note that this event is strictly reserved for Italcham members, offered on a complimentary basis as part of your membership benefits. Seats are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
​International Women's Day Event with Saray Khumalo
In celebration of International Women’s Day, ItalCham is pleased to welcome Saray Khumalo for an inspiring and thought-provoking afternoon dedicated to leadership, resilience, and purpose.
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In 2019, after three previous attempts, Saray Khumalo successfully summited Mount Everest, becoming the first Black African woman to reach the world’s highest peak and complete the Seven Summits challenge. Her achievement is not only a historic milestone but a powerful example of perseverance, strategic focus, and the courage to rise beyond setbacks.
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Today, Saray is an award-winning mountaineer, expedition leader, author, and transformational coach. As a business executive and founder of Summits With a Purpose, she actively advances literacy and education in underserved African communities — demonstrating how leadership can create meaningful and lasting social impact.
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This event offers ItalCham members and partners an opportunity to celebrate women’s achievements while engaging in meaningful dialogue within our international business community. We will be collaborating with fellow European Chambers, adding a dynamic cross-cultural networking dimension to the afternoon.
Signed copies of My Journey to the Top of the World will be available for purchase.
Date: 5 March 2026
Time: 16:00
Venue: Killarney Golf Club, Gazebo Room
Member Fee: R500 + VAT
Non-Member Fee: R650 + VAT
RSVP by: 26 February 2026
Please note that attendance is limited and registrations will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.
​Italy Showcases Mining Technology at African Mining Indaba 2026
Italy returns to African Mining Indaba 2026 (9–12 February, CTICC Cape Town) with a collective organised by ICE – Italian Trade Agency within the EU Pavilion. The Italian Area features eight companies, seven of which are represented on site, highlighting Italy’s technological expertise and innovative solutions for the mining sector.
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The initiative builds on activities launched in 2024 to strengthen Italy’s engagement in Sub-Saharan Africa’s mining industry. Alongside the exhibition, the programme includes conferences and technical sessions.
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A highlight was the seminar “Italy–Africa: Partnership Opportunities in the Critical Minerals Agenda”, organised by the Ministry of Made in Italy with ICE Johannesburg, The event was attended by Ambassador Alberto Vecchi, Consul Giulio Mignacca, and Vice Minister Valentino Valentini, underlining the strategic importance of mining for Italian industry and Italy–South Africa cooperation.
​WESGRO EU Trade and Investment Breakfast 2026
Western Cape Positioned as Europe’s Strategic Gateway into Africa
On Monday, 16 February 2026, ItalCham, in partnership with WESGRO and the European Chambers of Commerce and Industry, hosted the EU Trade and Investment Breakfast at the iconic Royal Cape Yacht Club overlooking Table Bay Harbour.
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The exclusive, invitation-only engagement convened senior political leadership from the Western Cape Government and the City of Cape Town, European diplomats, representatives of WESGRO, and Heads of European Chambers. The breakfast provided a high-level platform for strategic dialogue on strengthening trade and investment ties between South Africa and the European Union, with a particular focus on the Western Cape’s role as a springboard into Africa.
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​Opening the programme, Wrenelle Stander, CEO of WESGRO, underscored the depth of the EU–South Africa economic relationship, highlighting that the European Union remains South Africa’s largest trading partner. Importantly, she emphasised that the EU is not merely interested in investing in South Africa — it is already a committed and active investor, playing a significant role in driving growth and job creation.
The Deputy Mayor of Cape Town, Eddie Andrews, challenged stakeholders to consider how the partnership can be deepened over the next decade, calling for greater collaboration, innovation, and sustained engagement between European and local businesses.
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Dr Ivan Meyer, Provincial Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, reinforced the Western Cape’s export-driven economic strategy. He noted that 96% of products exported from the Western Cape to the EU are tariff-free, underscoring the province’s competitive advantage and the importance of strengthening EU trade ties to expand market access and economic resilience.
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Premier Alan Winde reaffirmed the Western Cape Government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for investment, trade expansion, and policy certainty — positioning the province as a reliable and globally connected partner.
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Concluding the speaker lineup, the EU Ambassador to South Africa, Sandra Kramer, highlighted the scale and impact of EU–South Africa economic cooperation. Currently, 23% of South Africa’s total trade is with the European Union. The partnership has contributed to the creation of approximately 500,000 jobs and is reflected in the presence of over 1,700 EU–South Africa companies operating across sectors. She further noted the strategic shift from an “aid logic” to an “investment logic,” signalling a mature, mutually beneficial economic relationship grounded in sustainable growth and shared prosperity.
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The EU Trade and Investment Breakfast reaffirmed the Western Cape’s position as a dynamic gateway to Africa and demonstrated the strength of collaboration between European partners and local leadership. ItalCham and its partners remain committed to facilitating meaningful engagement that advances trade, investment, and long-term economic development between Europe and South Africa.
​​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.
Break Into India’s Booming Pet Market – PetBridge 2026
Early Bird 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
Early Bird discount (10% off) available until 31 May 2026.
For full information and participation details, please visit the ItalCham website.
SEIFSA CALLS FOR EXPRESSIONS OF
INTEREST FOR 2026
CLIMATE READINESS PROGRAMME & DECARBONISATION PILOT PROGRAMME
Climate Readiness Programme
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Johannesburg, 27 January 2026. The Steel and Engineering Industries
Federation of Southern Africa (SEIFSA) invites interested companies to submit
expressions of interest to participate in a fully funded 2026 Climate Readiness
Pilot Programme.
The programme, funded by the Danish Industry (DI) in partnership with SEIFSA
is designed to support South African manufacturers in understanding their
greenhouse gas emissions profile, building internal capability and preparing for emerging global climate-related compliance and competitiveness
requirements.
The programme will be delivered using a fit for purpose South African
developed Climate Fit Tool, an online platform that will enable companies to
input emissions-related data, develop a baseline, and engage with structured
technical support. Technical and one-on-one project management support will
be provided by Brundtland Consulting and Impact Strategy Consulting. All
delivery partners will operate under SEIFSA’s oversight and in accordance with
agreed contractual arrangements.
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Decabonisation pilot programme
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The Steel and Engineering Industries Federation of Southern Africa (SEIFSA), in collaboration with Danish Industry (DI), is inviting South African manufacturing companies to express interest in participating in a fully funded Decarbonisation Pilot Programme.
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The programme is designed to support manufacturers in understanding where emissions reduction opportunities exist within their operations and to help companies move from data and awareness toward practical, realistic decarbonisation planning. It forms part of SEIFSA’s broader climate readiness work and complements the Climate Fit Tool initiative.
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Interested companies must complete an online expression of interest form via the link provided.
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For further information, please contact: Nuraan Alli
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SEMA Certified Rack Safety Awareness Training
UPCOMING 2026 TRAINING
ACROW is pleased to announce that, following the outstanding success of the inaugural SEMA training, we will be hosting the second SEMA Rack Safety Awareness Training Course in South Africa in March 2026.
Once again, the training will be delivered in person by SEMA-approved trainers travelling from the UK, providing South African organisations with access to internationally recognised rack safety education locally.
Course Details:
Dates: 16, 17, 18 and 19 March 2026
(Please note: this is a one-day course. Delegates must select one preferred day to attend.)
Location: ACROW Training Facility, 37 Dekema Road, Wadeville, Germiston
Capacity: Limited places per day
Certification: SEMA Rack Safety Awareness Training Certificate issued to all successful delegates
Early Bird Cost: ZAR 13,200.00 per delegate (Book before 26 February 2025)
Normal Cost: ZAR 16,500.00 per delegate
Why Attend?:
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Gain internationally recognised rack safety competencies from SEMA-approved experts
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Learn best practice in rack inspection, damage identification, and reporting
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Reduce workplace risk and strengthen compliance with global safety standards
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Benefit from UK-standard training delivered locally, avoiding international travel costs
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Join a growing community of South African safety, warehouse, and logistics leaders committed to world-class safety
The November 2025 courses received exceptional feedback, with delegates highlighting the practical value, expert delivery, and relevance to real-world warehouse operations.
​​​SEE ATTACHED TESTIMONIALS!
Due to this strong demand, places for March 2026 are expected to fill quickly.
Bookings Close: 6 March 2026
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To register or request further information, please reply to this email or contact:
📞 [011 – 824 1527]
​​​We look forward to welcoming you as we continue to raise rack safety standards across South Africa.​​
Welcoming Our New Member
Heneways Freight Services
Heneways Freight Services was established in 1975 as a Freight Forwarder and Customs Clearing Agency, and from our earliest days, Italy has played a central role in our international growth. In that same year, we formed a strategic partnership with an agent in Italy, laying the foundation for what would become one of our strongest and most successful trade corridors. This early relationship positioned us as a key logistics link between South Africa and Italy.
In 2021, building on the success of this trade lane, we acquired Safrica Logistics, a respected South African family-owned business led by the Ceresa family, who specialised in the Italy–South Africa market. This acquisition significantly strengthened the corridor, marking an important milestone in expanding our footprint and reinforcing our long-term commitment to the region.
The continued growth of our Italy trade route led us to establish our own branches in Milan and Perugia, giving us a direct presence in the country and further strengthening trade both to and from Italy. With on-the-ground expertise, dedicated teams, and integrated logistics solutions, we are uniquely positioned to support seamless imports and exports between Italy and the rest of the world.
Today, our Italy-focused operations are supported by comprehensive forwarding services via air and sea, full customs clearing, tariff support, cargo insurance, and advanced warehousing and distribution capabilities. Our enduring commitment to the Italian market reflects our belief in long-term partnerships, operational excellence, and delivering tailored logistics solutions that connect businesses across continents.
Contact Us
Heneways Freight Services (Pty) Ltd
2 Lascelles Road, Meadowbrook, Edenvale 1609
T: +27 (0) 11 879 5400 Ext: 5499
C: +27 (0) 83 776 4986
W: www.heneways.com
Lex Africa Knowledge Corner
LEX Africa is an Alliance of leading African law firms, established in 1993 to advise local and international clients on trade, business, investment, disputes, and other activities across Africa. Read some of their informative Articles on the latest below.
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COMESA publishes important new Competition Regulations
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The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) has recently issued far-reaching new regulations expected to impact the way that business is being conducted in the COMESA member states. The COMESA Competition and Consumer Protection Regulations (2025 Regulations) came into effect on 5 December 2025. Importantly, it will affect all mergers and acquisition (M&A) transactions as well as full function joint ventures entered into after that date if they meet the COMESA monetary thresholds.​
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Content Compliance & Liability under Ethiopian Media Law: Key Insights
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The primary legal instrument governing media operations in Ethiopia is Proclamation No. 1238/2021, the Media Proclamation. This legislation represents a significant update and consolidation of previous media laws, notably repealing the Broadcasting Service Proclamation No. 533/2007 and amending the Freedom of the Mass Media and Access to Information Proclamation No. 590/2008.
High Court Temporarily Restrains Implementation of Kenya–US Health Framework​
​On 10th December 2025, the High Court of Kenya issued ex parte conservatory orders restraining the Government of Kenya (GOK) from implementing or operationalising the health cooperation framework executed between GOK and the United States of America (US) on 4th December 2025. The Kenya–US cooperation framework forms part of a new bilateral model of U.S. health assistance under its current global health strategy, with similar agreements already being pursued with other African states. The conservatory orders are temporary, remaining in effect pending the inter partes hearing of the matter, and apply insofar as the framework provides for or facilitates the transfer, sharing, or dissemination of medical, epidemiological, or sensitive personal health data from Kenya to the US.
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​View job vacancies on the SMILE website
via this link - CLICK HERE
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If you are currently hiring,
Please take a look at SMILE-vetted candidates HERE
Alla prossima!