ASTANA, Kazakhstan, July 23. The next Kazakh-Italian business forum will be held on October 7-8 in Milan, Marco Beretta, President of the Italo-Kazakh Trade Association (ACIK), said in an exclusive interview with Trend.
"To strengthen our relationship, we use all possible formats; one of them is the Kazakh-Italian business forum, which is held annually in Milan and which will take place this year on October 7-8 of this year," he said.
He stated that there is a great deal of promise for trade and economic cooperation between Italy and Kazakhstan.
"Both countries have committed to deepening their strategic partnership and diversifying economic relations beyond traditional sectors like energy. This includes exploring opportunities in creative industries, tourism, and addressing climate and environmental issues. Italy's technological expertise and investment in various sectors can significantly benefit Kazakhstan's economic diversification and modernization efforts," Beretta said.
According to him, Kazakhstan's agricultural sector has significant potential for growth and modernization, and Italy's cutting-edge agricultural technologies can play a crucial role.
"Italian companies can help improve productivity and quality in Kazakh agriculture through innovations in irrigation, farming equipment, and food processing. Thanks to the ongoing economic and political reforms of President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, which he spoke about during his visit to Italy at the beginning of the year, Europe is starting to view Kazakhstan as a trustworthy partner in the region. In this regard, Italian companies have a great advantage since they have been present in this country for a long time and have successfully implemented projects. We are confident that we will be able to expand the presence of Kazakh companies in Italy in the near future," he added.
Meanwhile, the volume of trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Italy amounted to $8.2 billion from January through May 2024. This is 21 percent more year-on-year ($6.7 billion).
At the same time, exports to Italy dominated trade turnover, at $7.7 billion, or 22.4 percent more than in January–May 2023. Imports from Italy rose by 2.5 percent during the aforementioned period, totaling $505 million. From January through May 2023, imports totaled $492.8 million.
