
Ecco Chamber
Fortnightly Italian news made in South Africa
I edition April 2025

Italy Unveiled: The Secret Jewel of Europe


Chambers Note
Italy Unveiled: The Secret Jewel of Europe
Investment, Residency, and Lifestyle Opportunities
Italy—a land where history whispers through ancient ruins, where rolling vineyards embrace golden sunsets, and where the rhythm of la dolce vita guides both life and business. From the grandeur of Rome’s Colosseum to the serene waters of Lake Como, Italy is more than a destination; it is an experience, an opportunity, a gateway. The Mediterranean sun blesses its landscapes, creating a perfect harmony between nature and civilisation. Yet beyond its beauty lies a nation poised at the heart of Europe, offering a powerful nexus for commerce, investment, and international connectivity. As the third-largest economy in the European Union and a G7 member, Italy stands as an economic powerhouse with an open invitation to investors seeking stability and growth.
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The Schengen Area grants Italy access to an economic tapestry woven with a $18.869 trillion GDP, 428 million consumers, and $9.541 trillion in exports—an ecosystem of boundless potential. For those with the vision to invest, the Investor Visa for Italy presents an elegant pathway to European residency. This program extends a two-year residence permit, renewable for an additional three, allowing investors to immerse themselves in the Italian economy while maintaining global mobility. With investment thresholds designed to foster economic strength, options include €2 million in government bonds, €500,000 in an Italian capital company, €250,000 in an innovative start-up, or €1 million towards philanthropic initiatives that safeguard Italy’s cultural and scientific heritage. For seamless access to this golden opportunity, the dedicated portal awaits: https://investorvisa.mise.gov.it/index.php/en.
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For those drawn not only to Italy’s financial prospects but to its unparalleled lifestyle, the Elective Residence Visa provides a haven for individuals with independent means, requiring only proof of financial self-sufficiency and a registered lease or deed for an Italian residence. To further enhance Italy’s allure, an exceptional Flat Tax system welcomes new fiscal residents with a fixed €200,000 annual tax on foreign income, alongside additional €25,000 per family member. This framework offers no Italian taxes on foreign assets, inheritances, or wealth, ensuring a seamless transition into Italy’s vibrant economy. Meanwhile, professional incentives reduce taxable income by 50% for five years, rising to 60% for those relocating with minors, cementing Italy’s status as a beacon for high-caliber talent.
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Unlike other investment migration schemes, Italy’s program directs capital into existing enterprises rather than requiring new business formation, strengthening established sectors and driving sustainable growth. With a resilient economy and a reputation for stability, Italy offers security where others offer speculation. Italy grants investors access to the economic resilience of the European market, ensuring long-term security and prosperity.
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For South African entrepreneurs, visionaries, and global citizens eager to claim their stake in Europe’s future, Italy stands as an open door. To explore these opportunities further, visit: www.investinitaly.gov.it.
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Italy is not merely a place—it is a promise. A promise of stability, growth, and a future woven with the richness of its past. Will you step through the door?

In the Spotlight Today: A Scoop of Italy
Connecting Over a Taste of Italy
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Come enjoy engaging with the cream-of-the-crop from the Italian-South African business community while savouring artisanal gelato and gourmet delights. Hosted by Baglios and catered by The Italian Job, this event promises a perfect blend of professional connections and authentic Italian indulgence.
Whether you're an entrepreneur, professional or simply passionate about Italian culture, this is the perfect occasion to expand your network in a relaxed and flavourful setting.
Expect an evening filled with dynamic conversations, potential collaborations, and, of course, a taste of Italy's finest! Don't miss out on this unique fusion of business and pleasure—the Italian way.

Business Excellence Awards 2025
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ItalCham has been organizing this event annually since 1999.
As a Charity Gala Dinner gathering more than 250 people - including members and non-members of the Italian Chamber.
The BEAs are a great opportunity for companies/attendees to build their network, connecting and integrating Italian and South African economies.
The BEAs are also an excellent springboard for exploring and investing in the rich historical relations between Italy and South Africa.
During the event, 4 awards will be presented to:
Business Person of the Year
Enterprise of the Year
SMILE SME of the Year
Lifetime Achievement Award ​
All the donations will be devoted to the Little Eden Society.

Annual Directory 2025/2026 - Advertising Rates
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Connecting Flights and Flavours
A Culinary and Trade Networking Experience
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Stellenbosch, 27 March 2025 – ItalCham hosted an exclusive industry event at Supersconto Stellenbosch, a leading importer of premium Italian products. Sponsored by Savino Del Bene, a globally renowned Italian logistics company and a longstanding member of the Chamber, the event brought together key stakeholders and importers in the Italian-South African trade sector for an in-depth discussion on the opportunities and challenges faced by importers of Italian goods in South Africa.
The event provided a vital platform for industry professionals to address critical issues, exchange insights, and explore strategies to strengthen the market presence of Italian products in South Africa.
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The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all attendees to collaborate more effectively in addressing import hurdles and promoting the growth of Italian products in South Africa. By fostering stronger trade relationships, investing in community-driven initiatives, and engaging with key stakeholders, Italian businesses can better navigate the evolving market landscape.

Dolce Vita Golf Trophy
Italy: Europe’s Best-Kept Secret for Investment, Residency and Lifestyle Opportunities

Reflecting on the success of the Italian Investor Visa Roadshow 2025
The Consulate of Italy in Cape Town, in collaboration with Henley & Partners and the Italian-South African Chamber of Trade and Industries, successfully hosted the first two events of the 2025 Italian Investor Visa Roadshow, held in the scenic Winelands (Stellenbosch) on 31 March – 1 April and Cape Town on 2 – 3 April.
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The roadshow provided an exclusive platform for investors and high-net-worth individuals to explore Italy’s investment and residency opportunities. Attendees engaged with industry experts on the Italian Investor Visa Programme, learning about its benefits, streamlined processes, and the broader incentives that make Italy a prime destination for global investors.
Insights from Henley & Partners’ Residence Program Index and Private Wealth Migration Report 2024 underscored Italy’s position as a leading choice, ranking:
* 1st for freedom of movement
* 2nd for quality of life
* 3rd for reputation, taxation, and visa processing times
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One of the roadshow’s highlights was the Dolce Vita Golf Trophy, an invitation-only tournament hosted at De Zalze Golf Club (Stellenbosch) and Atlantic Beach Golf Club (Cape Town). These events brought together CEOs, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth professionals, blending networking with a premium golfing experience. Alongside the tournament, the hospitality village featured Italian and South African sponsors, offering guests a taste of Italy’s lifestyle and investment potential.
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The roadshow concluded with a seminar at the Mount Nelson Belmond Hotel, where participants engaged in valuable discussions, followed by a networking lunch that fostered connections between potential South African investors and Italian business representatives.
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With its successful Western Cape debut, the Italian Investor Visa Roadshow sets the stage for future initiatives aimed at strengthening economic ties between Italy and South Africa. The organisers extend sincere gratitude to all partners, sponsors, and attendees who contributed to this remarkable event.
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For more information on investment opportunities in Italy, visit investinitaly.gov.it.

Loftus Festa Italiana
More Than Rugby - It's a Festival of Sport, Food and Music!





The Loftus Festa Italiana brought a vibrant fusion of rugby and Italian culture to Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, 29 March 2025, as the Vodacom Bulls faced off against Zebre Parma in an unforgettable Vodacom United Rugby Championship clash.
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The Embassy of Italy in Pretoria, in collaboration with Blue Bulls Rugby Union, and the Italian Cultural Institute in Pretoria, transformed the stadium and its surroundings into a lively Italian festival. Fans indulged in authentic Italian cuisine, fine wines, and traditional espresso, while the sounds of live Italian music added to the festive atmosphere. A stunning display of iconic Italian automobiles further showcased the country’s renowned craftsmanship and design.
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Among the esteemed participants were Vinotria and Technogym, two Chamber members who added to the Italian flair, offering guests a taste of premium Italian wines and an introduction to world-class fitness technology.
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This event not only celebrated the strong ties between South Africa and Italy but also set the stage for the much-anticipated Springboks vs. Italy test match later this year.​

Shaping the Future of Healthcare
A Collaborative Dialogue on NHI Implementation

On 2 April 2025, the EU Chambers of Commerce, in collaboration with the Embassy of Belgium, the EU Delegation to South Africa, and the Innovation Pharmaceutical Association South Africa, hosted a high-level roundtable discussion on the implementation of South Africa’s National Health Insurance (NHI) Act. This significant event brought together key stakeholders to examine how the NHI can enhance access to cutting-edge treatments while ensuring the sustainability of the healthcare system.
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H.E. Mrs. Sandra Kramer, EU Ambassador, opened the discussion with insightful remarks on the importance of international collaboration in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The dialogue facilitated an exchange of perspectives between policymakers, industry leaders, and healthcare professionals, focusing on innovation, equitable access, and patient-centered solutions.
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Notably, two Italian companies with interest in the pharmaceutical industry attended the discussion remotely, gaining insightful information on the future of healthcare in South Africa.​

L'Italia in 10 Selfies
A human-centered economy that helps build the future

“Italy in 10 Selfies” every year tells about some of the country's records, often little-known or underestimated ones, that determine the features of an economy that is more human-oriented and, therefore, more promising for the future. Ecco Chamber will feature some of these factual selfies in the upcoming editions.
PHARMACEUTICALS: ITALY IS FIRST IN THE WORLD IN
EXPORT GROWTH

Italy has emerged as the global leader in pharmaceutical export growth, with a remarkable increase of $13.6 billion between 2021 and 2023. This outpaces the United States (+$12.3 billion), Ireland (+$4.0 billion), Germany (+$1.74 billion), and India (+$1.66 billion). Additionally, Italy ranks second in Europe for growth in pharmaceutical patent applications over the past five years (2019-2023), with an impressive 35% increase, surpassing France (+20%) and Germany (+14%).
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In the field of life sciences, Italy also stands out as Europe’s second-largest publisher of research with 57,000 publications, and ranks fourth in the number of patents granted by the European Patent Office (EPO). The country also holds the third position in exports for the entire life sciences sector in 2023.
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On the sustainability front, Italy’s pharmaceutical industry has made significant strides in reducing its environmental footprint. Over the past decade, the sector has decreased its energy consumption by 32% and dramatically increased its use of renewable energy, quintupling its consumption from renewable sources between 2011 and 2021.
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With continued growth, innovation, and a focus on sustainability, Italy’s pharmaceutical and life sciences sectors are firmly positioned as global leaders.

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There are 4 new job vacancies on the SMILE Job Portal:​​
​General Manager - Doppio Collection - JHB
Operations Associate (Italian Language) - Setanta - CPT
Consultant (Italian Language) - Setanta - CPT
Manager - Alfie's Pizzeria - JHB
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You will find where to apply on the above link.
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View these and other 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!