2024-10-24 09:36:00
With the inauguration of a two-day cycle devoted to Italian leather processing technologies, Tunisia and Italy reaffirm their desire to strengthen their cooperation in this strategic sector.
Yesterday, October 23, in Tunis, a two-day event dedicated to Italian leather processing technologies opened, bringing together representatives of the sector, Tunisian and Italian. Organized by ICE-Agence Tunis and the Italian Embassy in Tunisia, in collaboration with the professional associations Assomac and Unic, this meeting aims to strengthen economic ties between the two countries and to promote know-how. Italian expertise in leather processing machinery and techniques.
The event, entitled “Italian technology: the key to creativity – the know-how of Italian leather, at the service of Tunisian companies”, took place in the presence of HE the Italian Ambassador to Tunisia, Alessandro Prunas , the CEO of Cncc, Riadh Ben Rjab, and the CEO of Fncc, Akrem Belhaj.
Leather, a bridge between Tunisia and Italy
In his inaugural speech, Ambassador Prunas highlighted the strategic importance of the leather sector for the Italian and Tunisian economies and insisted on the historic friendship between the two countries, stressing that this proximity is not limited to geography. “It is not surprising that Italy is today Tunisia’s second partner, and we hope to further strengthen our cooperation to reach first place,” he said, echoing the desire of Italy to consolidate its place as a major partner of the country.
Prunas then highlighted Italy’s leadership in the leather sector globally. “Italy is today a world leader both in leather processing technologies, with more than 65% of machine production exported abroad to 130 countries, and in tanned leather, representing 62% of European production and 25% of world production,” he said. He added that this expertise, based on know-how and innovation, is available to Tunisian companies within the framework of concrete partnerships.
The ambassador also underlined the importance of Italian investments in the Tunisian market. “Italy does not just export its technologies, it also invests in the development of Tunisian companies,” he recalled.
Among the 190 largest Tunisian companies in the sector, 70% produce for export and nearly 60% benefit from foreign capital, including 22% from Italy. For Prunas, this commitment from Italy reflects a desire to support Tunisian economic development and build a solid relationship between the two countries.
Reviving the leather sector
For his part, Riadh Ben Rjeb, director general of the National Leather and Footwear Center (Cncc), welcomed the continued support of the various actors, who are working to strengthen cooperation between Tunisian and Italian industrialists in the leather and leather sector. footwear, and recalled the importance of the cooperation agreement signed in September 2023 between the Cncc, Assomac and Unic, on the occasion of the Simac Show in Milan. This agreement marks a new stage in the strengthening of bilateral relations and in supporting Tunisian companies, by offering them new opportunities to access international markets. “This type of event is crucial to connect Italian industrialists and their Tunisian counterparts, facilitating the exchange of know-how and the transfer of technologies,” he added.
Furthermore, he stressed that the leather and footwear sector, although operating in a difficult economic context, remains a key industry for the Tunisian economy. In fact, more than 85% of exports in this sector come from offshore companies, many of which are Italian-owned. Ben Rjeb specified that Italy remains Tunisia’s main partner, absorbing more than 57% of Tunisian exports of leather and shoes each year, while 55% of leather imports come from Italy.
Despite the challenges, the director of the Cncc is optimistic about the future of the sector in Tunisia, which he considers to be a strategic hub for production and export. “We are convinced that the sector has strong development prospects thanks to exchanges with Italy, particularly in terms of technology, design and innovation. Italian know-how is a source of inspiration for our companies, which seek to adapt their processes to international standards,” he underlined.
He also recalled the role of the Tunisian workforce in this sector. “Large international brands such as Louis Vuitton, Prada or Adidas have chosen to set up in Tunisia to benefit from the quality of our production,” said Ben Rjeb. For him, this event constitutes a unique opportunity for Tunisian industrialists to learn about the latest technological advances and to establish fruitful partnerships with their Italian counterparts.
Italian investments in Tunisia: essential support for the leather industry
An opinion shared by Akrem Belhaj, director general of the National Leather and Footwear Federation (Fncc), who indicated that bilateral relations between Tunisia and Italy in the leather sector represent an essential opportunity to strengthen and diversify our exchanges.
Belhaj also affirmed that Italy occupies a leading position in Tunisia’s trade, particularly in the field of leather. “In 2023, nearly 57% of Tunisian exports of shoes and leather goods were destined for the Italian market, demonstrating the importance of this partnership. At the same time, Italy provided 59% of investments in the sector, supporting Tunisian companies with high quality equipment,” he said.
Akrem Belhaj also underlined that several Italian companies are established in Tunisia and produce mainly for export, thus strengthening economic ties between the two countries. “We still have many opportunities to explore to improve our position in Europe,” he insisted, expressing optimism for the future of Tunisian-Italian cooperation.
It should be noted that, during the first day of the event, a technical seminar brought together representatives of the two countries, as well as 160 local operators and a delegation of 13 Italian companies specializing in machinery and leather processing. The second day, for its part, will allow Italian participants to visit the Cncc and local companies to better understand the Tunisian market. The event will close today with a networking evening entitled “The art of leather”, where Tunisian leather goods and shoes products will be exhibited.
1729856894
#ItalyTunisia #shared #vision #development #leather #sector
Interview with HE Alessandro Prunas, Italian Ambassador to Tunisia
Editor: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us, Ambassador Prunas. Can you share the significance of the recent event held in Tunis regarding Italian leather processing technologies?
Ambassador Prunas: Thank you for having me. This event is pivotal for both Tunisia and Italy, as it marks a renewed commitment to strengthening our economic ties, especially in the leather industry. With over 65% of leather processing technologies produced in Italy being exported globally, our expertise can play a critical role in enhancing the capabilities of Tunisian companies.
Editor: You mentioned the historical friendship between Italy and Tunisia. How does this relationship impact economic collaboration?
Ambassador Prunas: Our relationship is indeed rooted in history, transcending mere geography. Italy is Tunisia’s second-largest partner, and we aspire to enhance our cooperation further. Our shared values and interests, particularly in trade and technology, create a solid foundation for future partnerships, aiming for mutual economic growth.
Editor: What roles do Italian investments play in the Tunisian leather sector?
Ambassador Prunas: Italian investments are essential. They not only provide advanced technologies but also build capacities within Tunisian companies. For instance, around 22% of the foreign capital in Tunisia’s leather sector is Italian. This investment reflects our commitment to supporting the growth of the Tunisian economy, creating jobs, and developing local expertise.
Editor: In your view, what are the future opportunities for the leather sector in Tunisia?
Ambassador Prunas: The prospects are very promising. Despite current challenges, the Tunisian leather sector has strong potential, especially with increased exchanges of technology, design, and innovation from Italy. Our collaboration can lead to significant advancements, helping Tunisia position itself as a strategic hub for leather production and export.
Editor: Thank you, Ambassador Prunas. Your insights are invaluable as we look to the future of this important sector.
Ambassador Prunas: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this key topic. I am optimistic about the future of Tunisian-Italian relations, especially in the leather industry.
Interview with HE Alessandro Prunas, Italian Ambassador to Tunisia
Editor: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us, Ambassador Prunas. Can you share the significance of the recent event held in Tunis regarding Italian leather processing technologies?
Ambassador Prunas: Thank you for having me. This event is pivotal for both Tunisia and Italy, as it marks a renewed commitment to strengthening our economic ties, particularly in the leather industry. With over 65% of leather processing technologies produced in Italy being exported globally, our expertise can play a critical role in enhancing the capabilities of Tunisian companies.
Editor: You mentioned the historical friendship between Italy and Tunisia. How does this relationship impact economic collaboration?
Ambassador Prunas: Our relationship is indeed rooted in history, transcending mere geography. Italy is Tunisia’s second-largest partner, and we aspire to enhance our cooperation further. Our shared values and interests, particularly in trade and technology, create a solid foundation for future partnerships, aiming for mutual economic growth.
Editor: What specific benefits can Tunisian companies expect from this collaboration with Italian firms?
Ambassador Prunas: Tunisian companies can expect access to advanced technologies, innovative practices, and a wealth of know-how that Italy has developed over the years. These advantages can help Tunisian businesses improve their production processes, product designs, and ultimately increase their competitive edge in international markets.
Editor: The event featured several discussions on cooperation agreements. Could you elaborate on those and their potential impact?
Ambassador Prunas: Yes, partnerships like the one signed in September 2023 between our National Leather and Footwear Center and Italian associations are crucial. Such agreements facilitate knowledge exchange and open doors for Tunisian firms to access international markets. This collaborative approach will not only invigorate our industries but also promote the sustainability and growth of the leather sector in both countries.
Editor: Lastly, what message do you hope to convey through events like this one for the future of Tunisia-Italy relations?
Ambassador Prunas: I hope to convey that our commitment to Tunisia is unwavering. We are here to support economic development and encourage innovation in your industries. Together, we can build a prosperous future, where Tunisia becomes a strategic hub for leather production and export, benefiting both our nations.
