Doing business in Italy

With a population of 60 million and a GDP of €3.84 billion Italy has established political, defence and trade relationships with UK and is one of UK's largest markets.

Italy is one of one of the top world's exporters and ranks among the world's six largest economies. UK exports to Italy in 2008 were valued at over 9 billion pounds and imports from Italy were over 13 billion pounds.

What are the opportunities?

Key opportunities include clothing and footwear, environment, ICT and healthcare. In addition there will be opportunities for UK companies in the large infrastructure projects planned for the World Expo to be held in Milan in 2015.

Guide to doing business in Italy

UKTI has produced a guide aimed at companies experienced in overseas trade who are new to doing business with Italy. This guide aims to provide a route map of the way ahead, together with signposts to sources of help.

• Introduction

• Preparing to export

• How to do business

• Business etiquette, language and culture

• What are the challenges?

• How to invest in Italy

• Contacts

• Resources / Useful links

Download the Italy doing business guide

Sector briefing

For information on your sector in Italy including opportunities, events and key contacts, please check out the latest sector briefings.

See all sector reports for Italy