Today, the 60th edition of SIAL, France’s flagship food industry exhibition, opened at Paris Nord Villepinte, until October 23. The biennial event brings together over 7,500 exhibitors and 400,000 products from 127 countries. Italy leads the international presence with 730 exhibitors spanning 17,000 square meters, followed by China (687), and France (595). Key sectors for Italian exhibitors include ‘Grocery and Dry Goods’, ‘Dairy and Eggs’, and ‘Confectionery and Premium Bakery’. Notably, 650 participating companies are start-ups.
SIAL expects to draw over 285,000 visitors, primarily from food industry and distribution professionals worldwide. A special program will also cater to 8,000 top buyers, who wield over €50 billion in purchasing power alone.
The theme for SIAL 2024, ‘Own the Change,’ underscores the industry’s push to embrace transformation and tackle global challenges, from sustainability to digitalization and corporate social responsibility.
INAUGURATING ITALY’S PAVILION AT SIAL 2024
The Italian Pavilion took center stage shortly after the inauguration of SIAL Paris 2024, showcasing the rich tapestry of Italy’s culinary excellence and artisanal expertise.
Francesco Lollobrigida, Italy’s Minister for Agricultural Policies, remarked, “Italian cuisine is far more than a sensory delight—it encapsulates our culture, history, and artistry. Today, we elevate it to the global stage, as we pursue UNESCO recognition as intangible cultural heritage. This is a tribute to the craftsmanship of our producers and the values we share through every dish. We invite the world to journey through Italy’s culinary heritage.”
Matteo Zoppas, President of the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), added, “With over 700 exhibitors, Italy once again asserts the unrivaled quality of its ‘Made in Italy’ brand. Our agri-food sector, a cornerstone of the economy, continues to grow and innovate, despite global headwinds. The Italian Trade Agency is committed to helping our businesses succeed internationally, ensuring they continue to shine on the world stage.”