Vinitaly, the international wine and spirits fair to be held in Verona from April 2 to 5, 2023, returns this year for its 55th edition.

Vinitaly is a key event because not only does it allow wine producers, distributors and consumers to meet and learn about the latest trends in the industry, but also because it has become an increasingly important part of developing the growth and success of Italian wine abroad.

This factor is crucial, especially considering that in 2022 Italian wine exports through off-trade channels (GDO and retail) are in the negative in the three main markets: United States, United Kingdom and Germany.

Specifically, the United States registers -2 percent in value and -5 percent in volume, the United Kingdom -11 percent in volume and -8 percent in value, and Germany -7 percent in value and -10 percent in volume (data from the UIV-Vinitaly Wine Observatory based on Nielsen-IQ).

With these numbers, of course, it becomes even more central to secure a network of buyers not only in these countries, but especially in emerging ones. It is no coincidence that Vinitaly has launched a roadshow to promote Italian wine in nine countries on three continents, ensuring the presence of both large and emerging markets.

Emerging targets certainly include Asian countries: China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong and Vietnam, which represent 20 percent of the next international targets of Italian wine companies, as Veronafiere CEO Maurizio Danese explains.

Waiting for buyers in Verona will be more than 4,000 wineries, 17 pavilions and 1,000 square meters of net exhibition space.

As always, the event will be divided into thematic areas. These include:

• International Wine, an event dedicated to international production, with the aim of introducing wines and spirits from other countries;
• Micro Mega Wines, designed for companies that have small but high quality production, both for native and international grape varieties;
• Enolitech, an international exhibition dedicated to technology applied to viticulture, olive growing and beverage;
• Vinitaly Design, for the best packaging for wines, spirits, beer and EVO oil.