Record for Italian food exports to Qatar, growing by almost 291% (+290.6%) in the last ten years. This according to Italian farmers’ association Coldiretti on Istat data, in relation to the visit of Italy’s Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte to a Lulu chain’s hypermarket in the Arab country. For the first time ever customers will find there products from Italian farmers under the Fai – “Firmato dagli agricoltori italiani” brand (“Signed by Italian farmers”) within a dedicated space. “This 100% Made in Italy area is the result of the collaboration started by Coldiretti with the authorities of Qatar to promote the authentic Mediterranean diet’s food products, including extra virgin olive oil, rice, cheese, sauces, sauces, pasta, honey, cakes, biscuits, non-alcoholic sparkling wine, and Pecorino cheese” said the president of Coldiretti Ettore Prandini.
COOPERATION WITH LULU MARKET
“Facing the current problems within the national and European economy – Prandini added – it is necessary to look for new markets for growth. Italian food products are exported to Qatar thanks to the collaboration with Lulu Group, which is one of the major distribution chains operating in 31 countries located in Asia, United States, Europe and Middle East, with an annual turnover of 7.4 billion dollars, and 48,450 employees”.
ITALIAN FOOD PRODUCTS FACING COUNTERFEITING
As Italian food exports have reached the value of 41.8 billion euros worldwide, the global value of counterfeiting rises to over 100 billion with a record increase of 70% over the last decade. “More than two out of three Italian products abroad are fake – says Prandini -. The commitment of Italian companies to promote authentic Made in Italy products must be defended at any level with greater rigor both in the labeling rules and in the protection of Italian food heritage typical trademarks”.