Forum of Italian Cuisine in Manduria: spotlight on Italy’s

Forum of Italian Cuisine in Manduria: promoting a UNESCO-recognized heritage

On March 29–30 in Manduria the first Forum of Italian Cuisine takes place, dedicated to enhancing and safeguarding Italy's culinary traditions, now included among UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. The meeting gathers institutional representatives, food and beverage entrepreneurs and sector associations to define shared strategies for growth and brand protection.

Main themes of the Forum

• Fighting italian sounding and protecting authentic Italian products on international markets;
• Ecological transition and sustainable farming practices to ensure long-term quality;
• Water resource management and methods to strengthen agricultural resilience;
• The economic role of the restaurant sector as a driver of employment and territorial promotion;
• Policy measures to support businesses facing rising energy and raw material costs.

Speakers and stakeholders

The forum features political leaders, association representatives and executives from the food and beverage industry. Panels are designed to foster public-private dialogue and to identify practical measures to support Italy’s gastronomic ecosystem.

Relevance for UNESCO sites

Italian cuisine is deeply connected to the cultural values of UNESCO sites across Italy: rural landscapes, traditional farming practices and local specialties sustain the living heritage. The Forum seeks to integrate these elements to promote sustainable tourism, typical products and local communities.

Practical information

• Venue: Masseria Li Reni, Manduria (Taranto).
• Dates: March 29–30 (programme includes plenary sessions and workshops).
• Audience: agri-food professionals, local authorities, associations, journalists and tourism operators.
• Goal: develop operational guidelines to protect typical productions and boost the international promotion of Made in Italy.

For programme updates and participation details, consult the organisers' official channels.