At the 19th International Processing and Packaging Exhibition (ProPak Vietnam) 2026, which runs in Ho Chi Minh City from March 31 to April 2, the Italian Trade Agency (ITA), collaborated with UCIMA, which groups the Italian Manufacturers of Automatic Packing and Packaging Machinery, has introduced 15 leading companies in the packaging and processing machinery industry from Italy.
This event provided Vietnamese businesses with the opportunity to directly access Italian manufacturers and explore modern packaging solutions, ranging from handling, filling, capping to primary and secondary packaging.
A representative from the Italian Trade Agency in Vietnam shared that Italy's packaging machinery industry is currently thriving, with a revenue of approximately €10 billion, of which exports account for about 80%. Asia is Italy's second-largest market, only after the European Union. Italian manufacturers have established a strong position in Vietnam thanks to advanced technology and high product quality.
On this occasion, the OpportunItaly program, initiated by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation along with ITA, was also launched to promote the development of trade connections between Italian and international businesses. The program not only focuses on processing and packaging but also extends to various other industries such as aerospace, automotive, sustainable infrastructure, mechanics, agriculture, fashion, and healthcare. The digital platform opportunitaly.gov.it is built as a comprehensive connection hub, helping Vietnamese businesses access business connection tools and participate in the global supply chain.
The strategic partnership between Vietnam and Italy, established in 2013, has seen continuous development. Italy is currently Vietnam's third-largest trading partner in the EU. Meanwhile, Vietnam is identified as one of the 20 strategic markets for Italian businesses, alongside other developed markets in Asia such as China, Japan, and Singapore.
H.E. Ms. Alessandra Tognonato, Consul General of Italy in Ho Chi Minh City, stated that Vietnam is increasingly asserting its role as a strategic partner of Italy in Southeast Asia, with strong cooperation potential in various fields, from industry to consumption.
"In the context of constantly shifting global trade, Italy's recognition of Vietnam as a leading strategic market in ASEAN not only opens up opportunities for trade cooperation but also promotes sustainable and long-term bilateral economic relations," she said.
The strong development in trade and investment relations between Vietnam and Italy is creating a favorable foundation for both sides to continue expanding cooperation, especially in the fields of industry, high technology, and processing. On this basis, many businesses from both countries are actively seeking opportunities to connect, transfer technology, and expand markets, contributing to deepening the Vietnam-Italy strategic partnership in the coming period.
According to data from Vietnam Customs, Vietnam's total import turnover from Italy in 2025 reached more than $2 billion, an increase of 3.6% compared to 2024. Machinery, equipment, tools, and other spare parts continued to lead with an import turnover of over $509 million in 2025, up 9.38% year-on-year. Meanwhile, pharmaceuticals and raw materials for textiles, garments, leather, and footwear are also important import groups from this country.
In the investment sector, Italy has up to now about 162 projects in Vietnam with a total registered capital of over $624 million, ranking 32nd out of 151 countries and territories investing in the country.
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