Italy’s agri-food sector boasts an invaluable heritage of Geographical Indication (GI) products recognized nationally, across Europe, and globally for their quality and uniqueness. This GI system not only protects the excellence of Made in Italy but also serves as an economic driver that continues to thrive. The 22nd Ismea-Qualivita Report on DOP, IGP, and STG agri-food and wine productions provides a snapshot of the DOP Economy’s performance in the Italian market in 2023. The data illustrates a year of growth, with Italy’s DOP and IGP agri-food and wine sectors reaching €20.2 billion in value, marking a further annual increase of +0.2%. Despite challenges such as climate change, geopolitical uncertainties, rising production costs, and price increases for both producers and consumers, the DOP Economy continues to account for around one-fifth of the overall value of Italy’s agri-food sector, contributing 19% to total revenue. Exports also showed positive trends: in 2023, exports reached €11.6 billion, with growth particularly strong in EU countries (+5.3% compared to the previous year) compared to non-EU countries.
The DOP Food Sector Drives Growth in the DOP Economy
The food sector recorded the highest growth in 2023, for the third consecutive year, with an increase of +3.5%, surpassing €9 billion for the first time. In contrast, bottled wine saw a slight decline (-2.3%), with a total value of around €11 billion.
A positive trend was also observed in consumption: spending on GI products in Italy’s large-scale retail sector grew by +7.2%, reaching €5.9 billion in sales (67% from the food sector and 33% from wine).
Consumers, both in Italy and abroad, increasingly seek high-quality, authentic products that respect production chains and the environment. The diversity, history, and originality of Italian products have strong global appeal. With 3,428 GI products worldwide, Italy stands as the leader, boasting 856 total DOP, IGP, and STG certifications, including 328 food products and 528 wine products.
DOP Cheeses: Over €5.5 Billion in Production Value
Cheeses are driving growth in the GI food sector. For the first time, cheeses recorded a +5.3% increase, surpassing €5.5 billion in production value. Exports also grew, exceeding €2.7 billion, supported by sustained pricing.
The Italian cheese sector includes 57 DOP, IGP, and STG denominations, representing over 60% of production value and nearly 59% of food sector export value. This trend is also reflected in large-scale retail sales, where GI cheese volumes grew by +3.9%, while value increased by +12.1%, surpassing €2.5 billion for the first time.
Montasio DOP: Growing Demand
Montasio DOP continues to be one of the most appreciated cheeses both in Italy and abroad, contributing to the sector’s growth and enhancing the reputation of Made in Italy. In 2023, Montasio DOP production reached 5,651 tons, with a production value of €49 million (+11.9% compared to 2022) and a consumer value of €88 million (+12%). Exports remained steady at 4.2%, consistent with the previous year.
The increasing recognition of Montasio DOP, both domestically and internationally, reflects the ongoing commitment of the Montasio Cheese Protection Consortium to enhance the DOP Economy. Through targeted promotion, protection, and development activities, the Consortium safeguards the product’s authenticity, emphasizes its connection to its region of origin, and supports the entire dairy supply chain. Every action taken is a step forward in guaranteeing the quality and tradition of Montasio DOP for producers and consumers alike.
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