Marking a significant milestone in the burgeoning trade relations between India and Italy, the Indo-Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IICCI) is delighted to announce the opening of its new regional office in Bengaluru on 28th March 2024. The office, strategically located within the new Consul General Officer of Italy in Bengaluru, signifies a crucial step in expanding the chamber’s footprint in South India.
The event, jointly organised by IICCI and the Consulate General of Italy in Bengaluru, witnessed the gathering of industrialists, architects, and professionals from the financial, legal, and education sectors. Alfonso Tagliaferri, Consul General of Italy in Bengaluru; Claudio Maffioletti, CEO and Secretary General of IICCI; and Sayeed Ahmed, CEO of Biesse India and Chairman of IICCI South India region, officially inaugurated the office.
Expanding Horizons in South India
Alfonso Tagliaferri shared his vision for the consulate and the Italian community in Bengaluru, “Six months after opening the Consulate General Office here, we’ve managed to bring many Italian agencies together, working as a startup with innovation at our core. Italy’s strength in small and medium enterprises and innovative prowess mirrors Bangalore’s Silicon Valley. This synergy is perfect for Italian companies looking to strengthen their presence in India, and we are thrilled to facilitate the start of IICCI’s South Indian expansion from our consular office.”
Sayeed Ahmed, expressing his enthusiasm about the new office, remarked, “People often doubt dreams, but today, as the Chairman of the Southern Region, I stand corrected. The dream of opening an office in South India, with the support of Consul General Alfonso Tagliaferri, is now a reality. This marks a special day for us in Bengaluru.”
A New Chapter for IICCI
Claudio Maffioletti highlighted the strategic importance of Bengaluru for Italian businesses, “This new beginning for the Chamber in one of India’s most critical geographical areas is a cause for celebration. Bengaluru, with its advanced industries, is a vital location for Italy. Numerous Italian companies in South India, especially in Bengaluru, have yet to become part of the chamber. We aim to bolster the region by organizing many successful programs as we have in other regions. I look forward to working closely with the Italian companies here to promote Italian technologies in India.”
The opening of the IICCI’s Bengaluru office reflects the enduring partnership between India and Italy, set against the backdrop of shared innovation and economic cooperation goals. With a legacy spanning over 55 years, the IICCI continues to forge new paths for collaboration, including the upcoming “Italian Tech in India” event in Pune, promising further engagement and opportunities for both countries.
Founded in 1966 in Mumbai, the IICCI – Indo-Italian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, IndiaItaly, is a pivotal association fostering bilateral trade and industrial relations between India and Italy. Officially recognized by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy, and a member of Assocamerestero, IICCI serves a dynamic community of over 750 members, driving forward the economic partnership between the two nations.
