ROME, July 17 (Xinhua) -- With stable trade growth between China and Italy, Chinese investment in Italy continues to expand, with many projects already operating steadily. In a recent interview, Cheng Xuan, president of the China Chamber of Commerce in Italy (CCCIT), said that as a traditional manufacturing power in Europe, Italy attracts Chinese companies in many fields, especially in solar power and electric vehicle sectors. He noted that green energy has become a new focus for Chinese investment in Italy.
In recent years, Italy has made renewable energy a national priority, revising energy laws and increasing relevant investment. In 2024, China and Italy issued the Action Plan on Strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Between the People's Republic of China and the Republic of Italy (2024-2027), prioritizing joint work on clean energy technologies, environmental policies, climate change and biodiversity.
Cheng noted that in recent years, Chinese enterprises are not only exporting solar products and photovoltaic panels to Italy, but also directly investing in local solar power plants and related facilities, helping to transform Italy's energy structure.
At the same time, in the electric vehicle sector, Chinese brands such as BYD and SAIC's MG are seeing sustained sales growth in Italy, while Geely has recently reached an agreement with local dealers to jointly develop the Italian NEV market.
However, Cheng pointed out that challenges still remain. Some Chinese companies expressed concerns about facing stricter scrutiny under Italy's "golden power" law, which can block foreign investment in strategic sectors. Complex administrative procedures, regional policy differences and a complicated tax system also add to costs and uncertainty.
Cheng advised Chinese companies to study local regulations and plan for compliance risks early. He also stressed the need for thorough market research and communication with Italian authorities when deals involve sensitive industries.
In the future, CCCIT will continue to support Chinese businesses through legal and tax training, policy briefings and networking events to help firms better understand local rules and connect with partners, according to Cheng.
Founded in 2008, the chamber now represents nearly 140 Chinese companies in sectors such as manufacturing, trade, logistics, finance and clean energy, serving as the only official Chinese business association in Italy. (Contributed by Gao Jingyan, edited by Yang Yajun, Yang Yifan with Xinhua Silk Road, yangyifan@xinhua.org)
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