Neapolitan tailoring and Geographical Indications: a concrete challenge for the future of Made in It

A historic initiative is taking shape in Naples to safeguard and project into the future one of the most renowned excellences of Made in Italy: Neapolitan tailoring. On April 20, institutions and master artisans will sit at the same table for a conference titled “Neapolitan Tailoring and Geographical Indications: protection, enhancement and opportunities.” 
The goal is to begin the process for obtaining a dedicated Geographical Indication (GI) for Neapolitan tailoring.

The association Le Mani di Napoli, promoter of the initiative together with Casartigiani, brings together Neapolitan workshops operating in various sectors of clothing, with the shared mission of promoting artistic craftsmanship and the prestige of the artisan profession.

To give greater relevance to the event and demonstrate full institutional support, the Campania Region immediately offered the prestigious Conference Hall of the Regional Council as the venue. This choice was welcomed with enthusiasm by Damiano Annunziato, General Director of Le Mani di Napoli, who saw it as a sign of recognition for the work of Neapolitan artisans. The hall, in fact, is a highly symbolic institutional space where key decisions for the region are made.

Identity, territory and new opportunities

The aim of the proposal is not only regulatory, but also cultural and economic. Annunziato highlights the desire to use Geographical Indications to definitively protect the name of Neapolitan tailoring, combating counterfeiting and improper use of the name, while enhancing the work of those who operate in the field.

This would strengthen not only the indissoluble bond between product and territory, but also the entire supply chain, creating stable collaboration between institutions, master tailors and academia. It would also certify the quality of Neapolitan tailoring and its techniques.

All of this would translate into new and valuable economic and tourism opportunities for the city of Naples, while giving proper recognition to a centuries‑old tradition that embodies Italian excellence on a global scale.

The meeting brings together, for the first time, a united institutional front and enjoys the support of MIMIT, the Campania Region, the Municipality of Naples and OriGIn.

The event will conclude with the drafting of a programmatic document outlining the roadmap toward official certification.

Ultimately, the path toward Geographical Indication is not merely a regulatory milestone, but a decisive step in defending quality and craftsmanship from counterfeiting. 
Tailoring is a cultural heritage before being an economic one — it carries the identity of entire generations. Obtaining this designation would represent an extraordinary opportunity for all Neapolitan artisan businesses: it would finally certify their mastery at a global level.

It is a chance to strengthen “Made in Naples” and foster new development, ensuring that the priceless value of handmade craftsmanship is protected, enhanced and recognized worldwide.