Italy's 'essence of excellence' continues to draw interest

From Chianti wine and Parma ham to Emilia-Romagna cheese, Chinese consumers are in for a treat of authentic Italian flavor during the China International Import Expo as Italy heralds free trade for a more prosperous future.

During the expo, more than 80 Italian enterprises, led by the Italian Trade Agency, are showcasing their products in healthcare, consumer goods, technology and, of course, mouthwatering food - the "essence of excellence of Italy", as Giuseppe Mazzarella, acting president of the agency, put it.

"Italy is eager to strengthen its cooperation with China. We firmly believe this important occasion will serve as an ideal opportunity to celebrate the 40th year of China's economic opening-up and will take our bilateral trade relationship to a new level," Mazzarella said, adding that Italian fashion, food, coffee and wine are already popular in China, while furnishings and interior designs are also well-received.