Vinitaly 2026 opens in Verona: Minister Mazzi's first public appearance

Vinitaly 2026 opens in Verona: Minister Mazzi's first public appearance

The 58th edition of Vinitaly has opened in Verona. The fair, attended by key institutions, runs until April 15 and is presented as a strategic platform for trade, export and wine-related tourism.

Among opening speakers was the new Minister of Tourism, Gianmarco Mazzi, making his first public appearance in office at the event. He highlighted wine tourism as a priority to valorise territories and help desaturate crowded urban centres through a more even distribution of visitors.

• Expected attendance: more than 30,000 international operators from 130 countries and over 1,000 top buyers, according to figures released at the inauguration.
• Tourism impact: Vinitaly acts as a traffic multiplier for Verona and wine destinations, benefiting accommodation and dining sectors.
• Strategic focus: premium segments and incoming promotion to convert wine production into cultural and experiential tourism.

Vinitaly thus positions itself as both a commercial showcase and a tool to promote local identities, drawing visitors attracted by wine-related cultural and gastronomic experiences.