Haute cuisine – In the beating heart of Milan, among the elegant tables of chef Andrea Aprea’s restaurant, an event was staged that was not only a celebration, but a declaration of intent. The Consorzio Italia del Gusto has brought together the excellence of the Italian agri-food industry in order to draw the balance sheet of an extraordinary year and look with lucidity at the challenges that are on the horizon.
A private occasion, designed to tell what it really means to bring not only products into the world, but culture, territory and passion. At its core, the collective strength of a system that has made quality its universal language.
“Made in Italy is a team. A shared vision that combines tradition and innovation,” said Giacomo Ponti, President of the Consortium. “The results of 2024 confirm our ability to compete in international markets, but they also impose new responsibilities. The reputation won must not only be defended, but also re-established.”
Exports fly, but the international wind changes
Behind the euphoria over record numbers, there is a glimpse of the complexity of an increasingly volatile global market. Italian agri-food exports recorded double-digit growth in key countries: +18% in the US, +16% in Australia and +15% in Canada. And the data is clear: even less established markets such as Poland (+19%) and South Korea (+233% in ten years) offer interesting spaces.
But between fragile diplomacy and the return of protectionism, caution is required.
“Italy has recorded the highest growth rate among the main exporters of food & beverage,” said Denis Pantini, Nomisma’s agri-food manager. “However, any customs barriers, such as those already introduced in the past by the United States, represent a real risk to the stability of our exports.”
The taste of excellence: when food becomes storytelling
To tell the wealth of Italian companies were not only the numbers, but also the dishes. The event has turned into an author gastronomic experience thanks to the signature of chef Andrea Aprea, two Michelin stars, who has built a tasting route inspired by the products of the consortia.
A cuisine that spoke the language of identity, seasonality and territory. From organic egg with Grana Padano PDO and black truffle, served with an elegant Bellavista Franciacorta DOCG, to guinea fowl with cauliflower, mustard and chamomile, each course has honored the Italian chain. The desserts end in beauty: gianduia and raspberries, babà all’amarena, and a chocolate with salt and traditional balsamic vinegar from Modena Ponti Extra Vecchio.
Beyond the plate: a global vision
The Consorzio Italia del Gusto, born to promote Italian food in the world, is confirmed as a protagonist of a narrative that goes beyond the product. The message is clear: Italy does not win alone, but when it makes system. And today more than ever a common strategy is needed to defend the value of Made in Italy, even in the most competitive contexts.
In a fast-changing world, Italian taste remains a staple. But it is no longer enough to be good. You must also be intelligent, strategic and ready to tell your story, with courage and vision.
Cover : Unsplash