Market Information
Europe

Market Brief
The Pulse Products Market in Italy

July 2002

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
MRC # 0800005

Report prepared by the Market Research Centre
Market Support Division (TCM)
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
125 Sussex Drive, Ottawa K1A 0G2
Fax: (613) 943-1103
E-mail: mrc@dfait-maeci.gc.ca

The Market Research Centre produces a wide range of market reports by region and sector for Canadian exporters. These reports are available from:

-- DFAIT's InfoExport Internet site (http://www.infoexport.gc.ca).

The Government of Canada has prepared this report based on primary and secondary sources of information. Readers should take note that the Government of Canada does not guarantee the accuracy of any of the information contained in this report, nor does it necessarily endorse the organizations listed herein. Readers should independently verify the accuracy and reliability of the information.

Quick Facts

Market Highlights

• Italy offers an attractive consumer market for foreign products and services in virtually every sector. The country has a gross domestic product (GDP) of $1.2 trillion⁽¹⁾ and a population in excess of 57 million.
• Italy is a large and consistent market for Canadian pulse products. Two of Canada's top exports to Italy in 2001 were lentils and dried peas.
• Local production can not meet Italian demand for beans, peas, chick peas and lentils. Italy will, therefore, continue to be a strong market for these Canadian pulses in the years ahead.

Opportunities

• As one of Italy's top overall suppliers of pulse products, future opportunities for Canadian exports appear promising. Supply opportunities are available for processed pulse products, particularly canned products, as well as raw/dried pulse products to be used by the domestic food-processing industry and local foodservice sector. Export possibilities are particularly strong for organic and non-genetically modified pulse products.
• The growing private-label market also offers potential for Canadian pulse products.

Key Players

• Canada is Italy's top supplier of dried leguminous vegetables. In 2001, pulse imports from Canada totalled over $44.8 million. Other leading foreign competitors include China, France, Argentina, the United States and the United Kingdom.

Customers

• Italians retain considerable pride in their traditional diet and have been slower than most European countries to adopt North American-style food products. However, this is rapidly changing, particularly with the establishment in Italy of major multinational supermarket chains and foodservice franchises.

Export Checklist

• The value-added tax levied on pulse products in Italy is 4% for raw products and 9% for processed products.
• All exports must be accompanied by a standard set of shipping documents. Mandatory label information must be printed in Italian.
• The Canadian Special Crops Association (CSCA)⁽²⁾ can serve as a helpful contact for Canadian exporters dealing in the Italian market.

Market Summary

• As the world's sixth-largest economy, Italy is a market of immense potential for Canadian companies. The country has a $1.2-trillion GDP and a population in excess of 57 million. In addition, because of Italy's membership in the European Union, products cleared for sale in Italy can move freely into other EU member states, providing an excellent opportunity for Canadian companies seeking to access other lucrative, nearby European markets.
• Agriculture currently accounts for 2.7% of Italy's total GDP. Over the last few decades, Italy has evolved from an agriculture-dependant economy to an industrial economy roughly equal in size to those of the United Kingdom and France. Italy's economy is still divided into a developed industrial north, dominated by private companies, and a less-developed agricultural south. In spite of large amounts of EU and Italian funds dedicated to the development of the south, it remains about one-third less wealthy than its northern neighbour and has an unemployment rate around 22%.
• Italy sources most of its agri-food needs within the European Union, except where cost differentials are sufficient to justify importation under high EU duty rates. As a result, major agri-food imports from North America have up to now been largely restricted to such items as high-quality blending wheats, oilseeds, pulses, horsemeat, fish and seeds.
• Per capita, Italians consume approximately 6 kilograms (kg) of pulses per year. With a 30.7% market share, pulses follow tomatoes as the second-largest selling commodity in the vegetable sector.
• Canada's agri-food exports to Italy in 2001 totalled $188.8 million. Two of Canada's top exports to Italy were pulses: lentils (5.8% of total exports) and dried peas (3.5%).
• Although pulse products are grown domestically, local production can not meet the large and growing demand. Italy will therefore continue to be a strong market for Canadian pulses in the years ahead.

Beans

• Bean consumption in Italy averages 3 kg per person per year. Beans are used in variety of regional dishes including antipastos, minestrones and rissottos. They are also used in spreads and served as a side dish.
• Beans are sold throughout Italy in both dry and processed formats. Dry beans are generally sold in 500-gram cellophane packages. Processed beans are generally canned or bottled but also appear in prepared foods such as ready meals. Of all packaging formats, canned beans dominate sales, particularly in northern Italy, while beans sold in glass jars account for only 8% of total beans sales.
• Borlotti beans, similar to the cranberry bean, are popular in northern Italy while southern Italians favour white beans. Both types of beans are popular in Tuscany, in the central region of the country, which is known as the bean-eating centre of Italy. Broad beans, also known as horse beans or fababeans, are popular throughout the country. In fact, Italy is the world's second-largest broad bean importing country. Other prominent imported beans include pinto, black, small red, and kidney (both dark and light red) beans.
• Local production of beans is forecast to reach 64 000 tonnes in 2002; an increase of 11.6% from 2001 totals. Imports are expected to total 96 000 tonnes. Approximately 86 000 tonnes will be used for domestic consumption; the remaining imports will be repackaged for resale to other EU countries.
• With exports of $46.5 million in 2001, China was Italy's main overall supplier of beans. Canada captured a significant portion of kidney bean ($5.2 million) and dried bean ($5 million) markets. However, Canadian exports of red beans ($19 238) and mung beans ($10 998) were not as lucrative. Other top foreign suppliers included Argentina ($36.1 million) and the United Kingdom ($21.4 million).
• The average price of beans, over all classes and grades, is forecast to decrease from 2001 prices by 15-20% due to an increase in supply.

Chick Peas

• Italy is one of the top importers of chick peas in the world and is the second-largest importer in Europe, behind Spain.
• Chick peas are used almost exclusively in Italy for human consumption in soups, pasta dishes, and as condiments and side dishes. The kabuli type, the most popular variety in Italy, is known as an excellent source of protein, fibre, complex carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Approximately 4840 tonnes of canned chick peas were purchased by Italian consumers in 2000.
• With exports of $14.1 million in 2001, Mexico is the leading supplier of chick peas to the Italian market. Canada followed Turkey ($3.7 million) as Italy's third-largest supplier with exports totalling $3.1 million last year.
• Total world supply is expected to remain stable at about 8 million tonnes in 2002-2003. Canadian exports are forecast to increase as Canada's share of total world supply increases. The average price over all types, sizes and grades is forecast to be the same as in 2001-2002.

Peas

• Italian consumers use peas in several types of soups, pasta and rice dishes.
• Smaller European pea crops have resulted in a significant increase of Canadian feed peas being shipped to Europe in recent years. With sales of $12.3 million, Canada was Italy's leading supplier of dried peas in 2001. Other foreign competitors that year included Ukraine, France, Austria, the United Kingdom and the United States.
• Demand for pulse proteins by food manufacturers is growing throughout Europe as a result of consumer backlash against genetically modified (GM) soya protein. The total European market for pulse proteins was $171 million or 52 000 tonnes in 2000. Although demand for pulse proteins by the feed industry is expected to decline in the coming years, due to the availability of less-expensive and more-effective alternatives such as gluten, demand by food-processing sectors will make up the difference. The annual growth rate between 2001 and 2007 is projected to be 10.8%. Market leaders of pulse proteins include Canada's Parrhein Foods, which is Europe's largest provider, Avebe Glucona (Netherlands), Quest International (Netherlands), Cargill (U.S.) and Kerry Ingredients (Ireland).
• Prices for dried peas in 2002-2003 are expected to be pressured by lower protein meal and feed grain prices, lower food market demand and higher Canadian supply. The average price, over all types, grades and markets, is forecast to decrease 10-15%, as compared to 2001-2002.
• Local production of feed peas during 2002 is expected to total 8000 tonnes.

Lentils

• Italians consume over 3 kg of lentils per person per year. Lentils are used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, salads and casseroles. Over 3500 tonnes of canned lentils were purchased by Italian consumers in 2000.
• Canada is the leading supplier of lentils to the Italian market. Exports totalled $10.8 million in 2001--a slight increase from exports in 2000, which totalled $10.6 million. Other top suppliers in 2001 included the United States, Turkey, Australia and Portugal.

Table 1. Canadian Lentil Exports to Italy, 1996-2000

• Domestic consumption of lentils in Italy is expected to remain at 28 trillion tonnes through 2003, with 27 trillion tonnes coming from imports.
• Although Italy is a leading European importer of large and medium-sized green lentils, it is also a key destination for small green lentils.
• The average price, over all types and grades, is forecast to increase by approximately 5% over 2002-2003, due to a potentially reduced global supply.

Organic

• Italy has the highest pesticide-free rate in Europe. Approximately 80% of Italian-grown fruits, vegetables and cereals contain no traces of pesticides whatsoever.
• Italy is the largest producer of organic food in Europe. Although 30% of organic food grown in Europe is produced in Italy, organic products account for only 2-3% of total agriculture production in the country. Over the last ten years, the organic market in Italy has grown faster than any other agri-food sector. This trend has been bolstered by the fact that consumers are more conscious about quality and food safety.
• Italy devotes approximately 1 million hectares to organic cultivation. Most organic production is concentrated in southern Italy, particularly Sicily and Sardinia, which together account for over 50% of the country's total organic production. Most domestic producers are small businesses that sell directly to consumers from stalls in local markets. There are only a few large-scale operations in existence. Although production is concentrated in the South, over 80% of consumption takes place in the North.
• Sales of organic food in Italy is expected to reach $7.3 billion over the next four years, reaching 3.3% of the country's entire food consumption. Over 60% of organic products will be sold in supermarkets by 2004, a significant increase from the current total of 27%. Specialized organic shops will see a drop in sales, however, from 67% to 33%, while organic restaurants will see a slight increase from 6% to 7% by 2005.
• Given the large market for organic products it is not surprising that there is a great deal of resistance to GM products in Italy. Italian agri-food producers and consumers believe that genetically modified organisms (GMOs) compromise the quality of food products.

Opportunities

• The Italian market for pulse products is poised for growth in all areas in the coming years. Both processed pulse products, particularly canned products, and raw pulse products that can be processed in Italy's large and growing food-processing industry offer potential to Canadian suppliers. Opportunities for organic pulse products are also available.
• Although private-label expansion in Italy got off to a sluggish start in the 1990s, sales are now comparable to other EU countries. The slow growth of private label has to do with Italian consumers' perceptions that private-label brands are low-quality products. Exporters must therefore stress the quality and taste of their products. Private-label products represent an excellent opportunity for retailers to generate increased profits and distinguish themselves from competitors. With its commitment to high quality and competitive pricing, the Canadian food industry is well-positioned to capture a large share of the private-label market.
• Italy's hotel, restaurant and institutional (HRI) sector is also expected to grow in the coming years and will require imports. The most popular ethnic food is Tex-Mex, in which pulse products are a central ingredient. As Italians move toward the trend of eating out, key staple ingredients, such as pulses, will be required by the HRI sector.

Key Players

• As one of the largest agricultural producers and food processors in the European Union, 85% of Italy's food requirements are satisfied by local production. Major agri-food products include fruits, vegetables, olives, sugar beets, soybeans, grain, fish and dairy products.
• The Italian food-processing industry is one of the most diverse in Europe. Pulses are used in several processed food products produced in Italy including Palmera's Insalaricche canned tuna salad line. Conserve Itlaia sells a line of vapour-cooked chick peas, peas and beans under the Eikos brand name. Other pulse-based products brands include Star and CIRIO.
• At the global level, Canada is the world's largest exporter of dry peas, lentils and chick peas. It also holds a significant share of the world's exports of dry beans. With an annual average of $26.76 million in imports throughout 1997-2001, Italy is the tenth-largest market for Canadian pulses.
• Canada is Italy's top supplier of dried leguminous vegetables. In 2001, total pulse imports from Canada totalled over $44.8 million. Other leading foreign competitors include China, the United Kingdom, Argentina, the United States and France.
• Canada has not yet made a large impact on the fresh or chilled leguminous vegetables market. With total sales of $8561 in 2001, Canada ranks 19^th--far behind key suppliers including France ($11.3 million), Egypt ($6.7 million), Spain ($2.2 million) and Germany ($1.2 million).
• Canadian and other foreign pulse producers have recently been faced with a competitive threat from the United States. The new U.S. Farm Bill includes a Loan Deficiency Payment for pulses (chick peas, lentils and peas), which means U.S. farmers are guaranteed returns, regardless of the world market price for their pulse crops. Not only are these subsidies significantly higher than the average world price for these crops over the last ten years, but prices are likely to decline even further with the increased production in the United States following the implementation of the new bill. This bill will not only affect Canadian exporters but all producers/exporters of pulse products.

Customers

• Over 72% of Italy's population live in urban centres. There are approximately 22.2 million households in the country with an average of 2.6 persons per household.
• Approximately 20% of household expenditures in Italy is spent on food and beverages. Per-capita income varies according to region, with Northern Italy having the highest per-capita income ($34 841) and the largest population (25.8 million). Central Italy's 11.1 million people have a per-capita income of $30 543, while the southern region's 20.8 million people have the country's lowest average income, $18 934.
• Italian consumers are health conscious and are extremely discerning when it comes to food. Consumers demand genuine, natural and fresh products and are willing to spend more for better-quality food than their EU neighbours.
• Italy is behind its EU counterparts in demand for convenience foods. However, with the growing number of women in the work force, there is an increased emphasis on time-saving meals--although not to the extent that quality is sacrificed.
• Organic products are consumed by 23% of the Italian population on a regular bases. Generally speaking, women are more likely to buy organic products than men. Typical organic consumers are upper-middle-class professionals between the ages of 25 and 44 who live in the centre or northern part of the country. Consumers shop for organic goods more than once a week and plan in advance what they will purchase.
• The most recent trend in Italy is to break with culinary tradition and begin to experiment with non-traditional food. There are over 50 ethnic restaurants opening every month. Over 100 organic restaurants are in operation in Italy, with the majority located in the North.
• Northern Italy has 193 hypermarket outlets, the highest concentration in the country. Central Italy has 69 hypermarkets and the southern region has 42. Independently owned food shops flourish in the south of Italy, compared to large retail outlets. Independent grocers currently account for 25% of sales in the food market.
• Leading domestic food retailers include COOP Italia, COAND, La Rinascente and Gruppo COIN. Many European retailers also operate in the market, including Auchan, Carrefour, Marbert, Promodes and Sephora. Large supermarket chains not only offer a varied selection of food products but have recently begun to aggressively promote their own private-label brands. At present, most chains prefer to buy from locally based importers/distributors. However direct imports are expected to increase for large suppliers as quality-control requirements push them to become more involved in their supply chain. Most major supermarket chains and buying consortia are located near Milan.
• There are about 100 special foods outlets in Italy selling organic food. The vast majority, 67%, are in Northern Italy. The leading outlets include Natura Si and Bottega & Natura. Most supermarket chains stock some organic products. Coop Italia and Esselina are the largest chains selling organic products, and have developed their own organic private-label brands.
• The importation of organic products is undertaken exclusively by small to medium-sized packers and canners, usually relying on specialized brokers. Given the fragmentation, lack of transparency and poor payment enforcement mechanisms of the distribution system, it is highly recommended that Canadian exporters deal through local Italian brokers and take care in extending any special payment term.
• A list of major EU companies importing organic pulses is available from Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization (SAFRR). It includes general company information and contact details as well as the products they import and the certification they accept.
• Canadian exporters that can assist in consolidating shipments from other Canadian sources or that have a wide range of products for export have the greatest possibility of success in the Italian market. Single-item exporters, especially with products without a national Canadian market, have a more limited chance for success in the Italian market at this time.

Export Checklist

• As a member of the European Union, Italy does not have bilateral trade agreements with any developed nation. EU members share a common agricultural policy, a joint transportation policy, free movement of goods and capital within member states, and a common tariff on imported products coming from non-EU countries. While customs duty rates are the same for all 15 EU countries, the value-added tax (VAT) on products and services usually differ from country to country. The VAT, known in Italy as l'imposta sul valore aggiunto (IVA) is set at 4% for basic raw food items and 9% for processed food products.
• Italy adheres to the product standards and certification approval process approved by the European Community. Italy is required by the Treaty of Rome to incorporate approved EU directives into its national laws. The uniformity in application of standards may vary according to region, further complicating the certification process. Firms exporting to Italy are confronted with both national and EU product standards. In addition, these regulations occasionally change to meet new technology and more stringent demands.
• All exports must be accompanied by a standard set of shipping documents. This includes a commercial invoice, export declaration form, bill of lading (or air waybill in the case of air cargo shipments) and certificate of origin. Packing lists and a pro-forma invoice are not necessary but might help to facilitate clearance. Import licences are also required; they are issued by the Minister of Finance and are generally valid for six months. Although Italian documents are preferred, English language documents are permitted.
• The following label information is mandatory and must be printed in Italian on all packaging: product name, list of ingredients, net weight or net volume (in metric), directions for storage and use, expiration date (must be presented as day/month/year), country of origin, name and address of the importer, and selling price. Packaged food products must have a lot marking, which is determined by the producer, manufacturer, packager or the first seller. Nutritional labelling is not compulsory except when a nutrition claim is made in the labelling, presentation or advertising of the product or when it is required by another EU directive. Only nutritional claims relating to protein, energy value, fat, fibre, sodium, prescribed vitamins or carbohydrates are permitted. Further information on Italian labelling requirements can be found on the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Web site at http://ats.agr.ca/info/europe/e1429.htm.
• All food imports must adhere to EU sanitary and phytosanitary regulations and to certification requirements set out by Italian veterinarian and plant authorities. Under EU legislation, Italy must accept food imports from member states provided that the item meets with food laws in the exporting EU country. All imports from non-member countries, however, are subject to Italian food laws. Exporters are advised to request regulation information from their importers or from the Canadian Embassy in Italy.
• The European Union has detailed regulations on the production, labelling and inspection of organic products, and maintains a list of countries from which imports of organic products are permitted. Canada does not appear on this list. Until December 31, 2005, countries not on the list may still export organic products to the European Union, provided that the importer furnishes evidence that the imported products were produced in a manner equivalent to EU rules and inspected according to EU-equivalent measures. The case-by-case nature of this approval process creates uncertainty for Canadian exporters. After 2005, imports of organic products must originate in countries appearing on the EU list.
• In an effort to rebuild public confidence in EU food safety regimes, the European Commission has proposed regulations on labelling and traceability. These regulations will require GMOs to be documented on a transformation event basis. Under the new proposal, all food and animal products imported by EU countries must bear a label alerting consumers of the presence of GM ingredients. The new regulations also includes measures that impose the separation of GM from conventional crops.
• The European Union is also in the process of developing EU-wide maximum residue levels (MRLs) for most commonly used pesticides. The first series of MRLs was adopted in July 1993. For pesticides not included on that list, individual member state regulations will remain in effect until a harmonized MRL is established. Additional information can be obtained from European Union Online: http://europa.eu.int/comm/food/fs/
  ph_ps/pro/eva/existing/index_en.htm.
• Documents that need to be authenticated, such as certificates of sale and letters authorizing an exporter's local agent or importer to act on their behalf, must first be notarized in Canada. At no cost to the exporter, the notarized documents can be authenticated by sending them to the Authentication and Service of Documents (JLAC) of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.
• For statistical purposes, Canada requires exporters to complete an Export Declaration (Form B13A). It can be filled in and sent electronically to the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency
  (http://www.ccra-adrc.gc.ca/E/pbg/cf/b13abq). See APPENDIX A for the export codes required for B13A.
• The Canadian Special Crops Association (CSCA) establishes trade rules and serves as a forum for exporters, dealers, brokers and processors involved in trading Canada's special crops, including pulses, and can serve as a helpful contact for Canadian exporters dealing in the Italian market. More information about the CSCA and the services they provide can be obtained on their Web site at http://www.specialcrops.mb.ca.
• The Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) is responsible for the maintenance of quality for Canadian crops including dry peas, lentils, dry beans and chick peas. The maintenance of quality ensures a dependable and safe food commodity for domestic consumption and for exports, and promotes stability and competitiveness for producers, the industry and customers. For further information on grain company licensing, or to access the Official Grain Grading Guide, visit the CGC Web site at http://www.grainscanada.gc.ca.

KEY CONTACTS AND SUPPORT SERVICES

Canadian Government Contacts

Canadian Embassy in Italy
Via G.B. de Rossi 27
00161 Rome, Italy
Contact: Yvonne Zadra, Business Development Officer
Tel.: (39-06) 445981
Fax: (39-06) 445983754
E-mail: yvonne.zadra@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.canada.it

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT)
125 Sussex Dr.
Ottawa, ON K1A 0G2
Internet: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Authentication and Service of Documents (JLAC)
Tel.: (613) 992-6602
Fax: (613) 992-2467

Consulate General of Canada in Milan
Via Vittor Pisani 19
Milan, Italy
Contact: Pier Paolo Chicco, Business Development Officer
Tel.: (39-02) 67581
Fax: (39-02) 6758-3900
E-mail: pierpaolo.chicco@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.canada.it

Market Support Division (TCM)
Tel.: (613) 995-1773
Fax: (613) 943-1103
Western Europe Division (REO)
Tel.: (613) 995-8269
Fax: (613) 995-5772

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Sir John Carling Building
930 Carling Ave.
Ottawa, ON K1A 0C5
Contact: Sylvain Wilson, International Market Development Officer
Tel.: (613) 759-7726
Fax: (613) 759-7505
E-mail: wilsons@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://ats.agr.ca

(See also Regional Trade Contacts, below)

Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC)
50 O'Connor St., Suite 1100
Ottawa, ON K1A 0S6
Tel.: 1-800-748-8191 or (613) 996-0034
Fax: (613) 995-2121
Internet: http://www.ccc.ca

Export Development Canada (EDC)
151 O'Connor St.
Ottawa, ON K2P 2L8
Tel.: 1-888-332-4593 / (613) 237-2690
Fax: (613) 598-6697
E-mail: export@edc4.edc.ca
Internet: http://www.edc.ca

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
59 Camelot Dr.
Nepean, ON K1A 0Y9
Tel.: (613) 225-2342
Fax: (613) 228-6653
E-mail: cfiamaster@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.cfia-acia.agr.ca

Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization
3085 Albert St.
Regina, SK S4S 0B1
Tel.: (306) 787-5140
Internet: http://www.agr.gov.sk.ca/default.asp

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada-Regional Trade Contacts

Charlottetown, P.E.I.
Rollin Andrew
Tel.: (902) 566-7315
E-mail: andrewr@agr.gc.ca

Edmonton, Alta
Lorrie McFadden
Tel.: (780) 495-2119
E-mail: mcfaddenl@agr.gc.ca

Guelph, Ont.
Wayne Parlee
Tel.: (519) 837-5824
E-mail: parleew@agr.gc.ca

Halifax, N.S.
Janet Steele
Tel.: (902) 426-7171
E-mail: steelej@agr.gc.ca

Moncton, N.B.
Bernard Mallet
Tel.: (506) 452-3706
E-mail: malletb@agr.gc.ca

Montreal, Que.
Sandra Gagné
Tel.: (514) 283-3815 ext. 523
E-mail: gagnes@agr.gc.ca

New Westminster, B.C.
Margaret Bancroft
Tel.: (604) 666-3054
E-mail: bancroftm@agr.gc.ca

Regina, Sask.
Jim Atcheson
Tel.: (306) 780-5545
E-mail: atchesonj@agr.gc.ca

St. John's, Nfld.
Al McIsaac
Tel.: (709) 772-0330
E-mail: mcisaaca@agr.gc.ca

Winnipeg, Man.
Fay Abizadeh
Tel.: (204) 983-8622
E-mail: abizadehf@agr.gc.ca

Italian Government Contacts

Italian Trade Commissioner Service
(Istituto del Commercio Estero [ICE])
Viale Liszt 21
00144 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 065-9921
Fax: (39-06) 5964-7364
E-mail: ice@ice.it
Internet: http://www.ice.it (In Italian)

Ministry of Foreign Trade (Ministero Attivita Produttive)
Viale Boston 25
00144 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 59931
Fax: (39-06) 5964-7531 or 5993-2153
E-mail: info@mincomes.it
Internet: http://www.mincomes.it (In Italian)

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (Ministero delle Politiche Agricole e Forestali [MIPAF])
Via XX Septembre 20
00187 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 46651
Fax: (39-06) 474-2314 or 4665-2144
Internet: http://www.politicheagricole.it
(In Italian)

Ministry of Health (Ministero della Sanità)
Via della Sierra Nevada 60
00144 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 59941
Internet: http://www.sanita.it (In Italian)

Ministry of Finance (Ministero dell'Economia e delle Finanze)
Viale Europa 242
00144 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 59971
Fax: (39-06) 591-0993
Internet: http://www.finanze.it (In Italian)

National Institute for Agricultural Economics (Istituto Nazionale Economia Agraria [INEA])
Via Barberini 36
00187 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 478-561
Fax: (39-06) 483-488
E-mail: inea@inea.it
Internet: http://www.inea.it (In Italian)

Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Ministero degli Affari Esteri)
Piazzale della Farnesina 
00194 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 36911
E-mail: cdr@esteri.it
Internet: http://www.esteri.it/eng/index.htm

National Institute for Foreign Trade
(Istituo Nazionale per il Commercio Estero)
Via Listz 21
00144 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 59921
Fax: (39-06) 5992-6899

Canadian Industry Associations

Alberta Pulse Growers Commission
4301-50 St.
Leduc, AB T9E 7H3
Tel.: (780) 986-9398
Fax: (780) 980-2570
E-mail: abpulse@telusplanet.net
Internet: http://www.pulse.ab.ca

Ontario Bean Producers Marketing Board
4206 Raney Cres.
London, ON N6L 1C3
Tel.: (519) 652-3566
Fax: (519) 652-9607
E-mail: whitebeans@ontariobeans.on.ca
Internet: http://www.ontariobeans.on.ca

Canadian Food Exporters Association
885 Don Mills Rd., Suite 301
Toronto, ON M3C 1V9
Tel.: 1-888-227-8848 or (416)-445-3747
Fax: (416)-510-8044/3
E-mail: info@cfea.com
Internet: http://www.cfea.com

Ontario Coloured Bean Growers Association
RR 5
Mitchell, ON N0K 1N0
Tel.: (519) 348-4141
Fax: (519) 348-8165
Internet: http://www.ocbga.com

Pulse Canada
1212-220 Portage Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3C 0A5
Tel.: (204) 925-4455
Fax: (204) 925-4454
E-mail: president@pulsecanada.com
Internet: http://www.pulsecanada.com

Canadian Grain Commission
600-303 Main St.
Winnipeg, MB R3C 3G8
Tel.: 1-800-853-6705 or (204) 983-2770
Fax: (204) 983-2751
E-mail: webadmin@grainscanada.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.cgc.ca

Canadian Special Crops Association
1215-220 Portage Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3C 0A5
Tel.: (204) 925-3780/1
Fax: (204) 925-3785
E-mail: office@specialcrops.mb.ca
Internet: http://www.specialcrops.mb.ca

Saskatchewan Pulse Growers
310-111 Research Dr.
Saskatoon, SK S7N 3R2
Tel.: (306) 668-5556
Fax: (306) 668-5557
E-mail: pulse@saskpulse.com
Internet: http://www.saskpulse.com

Manitoba Pulse Growers Association
38-4th Ave. NE
Carman, MB R0G 0J0
Tel.: (204) 745-6488
Fax: (204) 745-6213
E-mail: mpga@cici.mb.ca

Italian Industry Contacts

Insitute for the Studies of the Agrifood Market
(Istituto per Studi sul Mercato Agricolo [ISMEA])
Via C. Celso 6
00161 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 8556-1295
Fax: (39-06) 8556-1233
Internet: http://www.ismea.it (In Italian)

Note: ISMEA is a research institute entirely targeted to gather news on agricultural products in Italy, including up-to-date wholesale and retail prices.

National Association of Importers and Exporters of Vegetables (Associazione Nazionale Esportatori Importatori Ortofrutticoli e Agrumari [ANEIOA])
Via Sabotino 49
00195 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 3751-5147
Fax: (39-06) 372-3659
E-mail: aneioarm@tin.it
Internet: http://web.tin.it/aneioa/homee.htm?30,15

Italian Agricultural Confederation
(Confagricoltura)
Corso Vittorio Emanuale 101
00186 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 68521
Fax: (39-06) 687-9686
E-mail: info@confagricoltura.it
Internet: http://www.confagricoltura.it (In Italian)

National Cereal Industry Association (Asociación Nacional de la Industria del Cereal [ANACER])
Via Po 102
00198 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 884-0296
Fax: (39-06) 884-0877

National Federation of Food Products (FEDERALIMENTARE)
Via dell'Astronomia 30
00144 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 590-3231
Fax: (39-06) 590-3342
Internet: http://www.federalimentare.it/home.html
(In Italian)

Italian Association of Foreign Trade
(Associazione Italiana Commercio Estero [AICE])
Corso Venezia 47/49
20121 Milano, Italy
Tel.: (39-02) 775-0320/1
Fax: (39-02) 775-0329
E-mail: info@aicebiz.com
Internet: http://www.aicebiz.com/index.jsp?lingua=eng

Italian Association of Millers and Pasta Plants (Associazione Industriali Mugnai e Pastai d'Italia [ITALMOPA])
Via dei Crociferi 44
00187 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 678-5409
Fax: (39-06) 678-3054
E-mail: italmopa@italmopa.it
Internet: http://www.italmopa.it (In Italian)

National Association of Vegetal and Food
(Associazione Nazionale Industrie Conserve Alimentari Vegetali [ ANICAV])
Viale della Costituzione Isola F/3
80143 Napoli, Italy
Tel.: (39-081) 734-7020
Fax: (39-081) 734-7126

Union of Pasta Makers
(Unione Pastai Italiani [UNIPI])
Via Po 102
00198 Roma, Italy
Tel.: (39-06) 854-3291
Fax: (39-06) 841-5132

Italian Food-Buying Groups

Insieme CMS
Via Vittor Pisani 14
20124 Milan, Italy
Tel.: (39-02) 6698-7433
Fax: (39-02) 6698-7431

Interdis
Via Lomelina 10
20133 Milan, Italy
Tel.: (39-02) 752961
Fax: (39-02) 7529-6504

Intermedia
Via Vincenzo Monti
20016 Milan, Italy
Tel.: (39-02) 3391-1308
Fax: (39-02) 3391-1208

Selex
Via Cristoforo Colombo 51
20090 Trezzano sul Naviglio, Milan
Tel.: (39-02) 4840-2900
Fax: (39-02) 4840-2038

Sirio
Via Missiglia 97
20142 Milan, Italy
Tel.: (39-02) 8930-9263
Fax: (39-02) 8951-4752

International Industry Contacts

COCERAL
18 Square de Meeûs
1050 Brussels, Belgium
Tel. (32-2) 502-0808
Fax (32-2) 502-6030
E-mail: secretariat@coceral.com
Internet: http://www.coceral.com

Note: Officially recognized representation of the cereals, feedstuffs, oilseeds, olive oil, oils and fats and agri-supply trade in the European Union.

European Association for Grain Legume Research
12 Avenue George V
F-75008 Paris, France
Tel.: (33-1) 4069-4909
Fax: (33-1) 4723-5872
E-mail: a.schneider-aep@prolea.com
Internet: http://www.grainlegumes.com/aep

Grain and Feed Trade Association
Room 206, Tower 1
Beijing Bright China Chang An Building
No. 7, Jian Guo Men Nei Da Jie
Beijing 100005 China
Tel.: (86-10) 6518-2273
Fax: (86 10) 6518-2274
Internet: http://www.gafta.com

International Pulse Trade and Industry Confederation (CICILS) Bureau 273
Bourse de Commerce
2 rue de Viarmes
75040 Paris Cedex 01 France
Tel.: (33-1) 4236-8435
Fax: (33-1) 4236-4493
E-mail: fnls@legume-sec.com
Internet: http://www.legume-sec.com
(In French)

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Print

Agra Europe. "Farm Minister Opposed to GM," May 24, 2002.

ANSA. "Experts Prepare White Paper on GM Products, Alemanno Says," June 4, 2002.

Dun and Bradstreet. Exporter's Encyclopaedia, 2002.

Euromonitor. "Italy: New Product Development: Product Launches-Canned Food by Sector," April 2000.

------. "Packaged Food in Italy," October 2001.

European Report. "Biotechnology-MEPs Vote for the World's Strictest GMO Legislation," July 6, 2002.

Frost and Sullivan. "European Protein Ingredients Market," September 2001.

Globe and Mail. "EU Votes for Tough GM Food Labels," July 3, 2002.

Star Ledger. "Lentils for Luck and More," December 26, 2001.

Electronic

Alberta Pulse Growers. "2002 U.S. Farm Bill: Pulse Canada Response," April, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.pulse.ab.ca/newsletter/
2002spring/pulsecda.html on May 26, 2002.

Biotechnology, Agriculture, Society and Environment. "Processing, New Food Application and Development of Improved Bean Cultivators" 1999. Downloaded from http://www.bib.fsagx.ac.be/base/
pdf-abo/v3n4/ran-ful.pdf on June 27, 2002.

Canada. Agriculture and Agri-food Canada. "Chick Peas: Situation and Outlook," February 9, 2001. Downloaded from
http://www.agr.gc.ca/policy/
winn/biweekly/English/biweekly/ volume14/v14n03e.htm on May 28, 2002.

------. "Dried Peas: Situation and Outlook," September 28, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.agr.gc.ca/policy/winn/biweekly/English/
biweekly/volume14/v14n17e.htm on May 28, 2002.

------. "Canadian Pulse and Special Crops Industry: Situation and Outlook," February 8, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.agr.gc.ca/policy/winn/
biweekly/English/biweekly/

volume15/v15n03e.htm on May 28, 2002.

------. "Exports to Italy," March 2002. Downloaded from http://ats.agr.ca/stats/trade_data/Italy_x03.pdf on June 18, 2002.

------. "Organic Food Market in Italy," March 2002. Downloaded from http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/ie-en/Display
Document.jsp?did=7373 on June 18, 2002.

------. "Italy at a Glance," May 23, 2002. Downloaded from http://ats.agr.ca/stats/factsheets/italy-e.htm on June 18, 2002.

------. "Canada: Pulse and Special Crops Outlook," May 31, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.agr.gc.ca/policy/winn/biweekly/English/
scsd/2002/may2002sce.htm on June 3, 2002.

------. "Bi-Weekly Bulletin: Fababeans-Situation and Outlook," June 7, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.agr.gc.ca/policy/winn/biweekly/English/
biweekly/volume15/v15n11eb.htm on June 13, 2002.

------. "Bi-Weekly Bulletin: Lentils-Situation and Outlook," June 7, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.agr.gc.ca/policy/winn/biweekly/English/
biweekly/volume15/v15n11ea.htm on June 13, 2002.

Canada. Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. "Canada-Italy Strategic Business Plan 2001-2002," November 2001. Downloaded from
http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/ie-en/
DisplayDocument.jsp?did=988&gid=88 on June 18, 2002.

------. "Opening Doors to the World 2002," 2002. Downloaded from

http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/tna-nac/cimap-e.asp on June 18, 2002.

COCERAL. "Oilseeds and Pulse Crop Forecast 2002," April 2002. Downloaded from http://www.coceral.com/forecast/oil-apr-02.pdf on June 27, 2002.

Just Food. "Organic Food Sales Set to Quadruple by 2005 Despite Consumer Ignorance," September 17, 2001. Downloaded from
http://www.just-food.com/news_print.asp?art=41654 on June 20, 2002.

------. "Italy: Bio-Domenica Promotes Organics, While Debate Over Pesticide Contamination Continues," October 8, 2001. Downloaded from
http://www.just-food.com/news_detail.asp?art=43112 on June 20, 2002.

------. "Italy: Italian Consumers Still Not Convinced By GM," March 7, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.just-food.com/
news_print.asp?art=48270 on June 20, 2002.

Pulse Canada. "Healthier Food Trends," 2001. Downloaded from http://www.pulsecanada.com/Documents/Newsletter/
2001Spring/2001Spring.pdf on June 27, 2002.

Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization. "List of EU Importers of Organic Pulse Available," April 22, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.agr.gov.sk.ca/docs/reports/f_f_report/ffr0217.asp on June 20, 2002.

------. "Chickpeas in Saskatchewan," May 2002. Downloaded from http://www.agr.gov.sk.ca/docs/crops/pulses/production_information/chickpea2002.asp on June 20, 2002.

Statpub.com. "Italy Crop Production Summary," May 7, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.statpub.com/stat/news/2002/5/12286.phtml on July 25, 2002.

------. "FAO Sees 7% Jump in World Pulse Output," May 16, 2002. Downloaded from

http://www.statpub.com/stat/news/2002/5/12950.phtml on July 24, 2002.

------. "Italy-Selected Specialty Crop Imports," June 24, 2002. Downloaded from

http://www.statpub.com/stat/exports/4759.html on July 24, 2002.

Stockholm School of Economics. "Pulse, Per Capita Supply Per Year," 2000. Downloaded from http://www.hhs.se/personal/suzuki/
o-English/fo30.html on July 2, 2002.

Trade Partners UK. "Food and Drink Market Italy," 2002. Downloaded from http://www.tradepartners.gov.uk/food/italy/
profile/overview.shtml on June 20, 2002.

United States. Central Intelligence Agency. "Factsheet: Italy," January 24, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.odci.gov/cia/publications/
factbook/geos/it.html on June 18, 2002.

United States. Department of Agriculture. "Can Do-Going Private Label Pays in Europe," September 2001. Downloaded from
http://www.fas.usda.gov/info/agexporter/
2001/sept/page04-0.pdf on June 20, 2002.

------. "Italy-Retail Food Sector Report 2001," November 30, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.fas.usda.gov/gainfiles/200112/
135682833.pdf on June 20, 2002.

------. "U.S. Exporters Keep Italy on the Bean," December 13, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.fas.usda.gov/info/agexporter/1998/usbeans.html on June 27, 2002.

------. "Italy-Grain and Feed Annual 2002," February 22, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.fas.usda.gov/gainfiles/200202/135683525.pdf on June 20, 2002.

United States. Department of Commerce. "World Factsheet: Italy," 2002. Downloaded from http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications
/factbook/geos/it.html on June 20, 2002.

Western Producer. "Peas Too Pricey for Feed Purposes," December 7, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.producer.com/articles/20011206/
market_quotas/20011206mkt03.html on

June 4, 2002.

------. "United States Closer to Subsidizing Pulse Production," February 22, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.producer.com/
articles/20020221/ market_quotas/20020221mkt02.html on May 30, 2002.

------. "Taking a Pulse on Special Crops," March 15, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.producer.com/articles/20020314/
market_quotas/20020314mkt01.html on May 30, 2002.

------. "Pulse growers Get Reprieve from U.S. Crop," June 7, 2002. Downloaded from http://www.producer.com/articles/20020606/
market_quotas/20020606mkt03.html on June 14, 2002.

OTHER REFERENCE MATERIAL

Useful Internet Sites

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada-Market Analysis Division: http://www.agr.gc.ca/policy/winn/biweekly

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada-Special Crops:
http://www.agr.ca/misb/spcrops

Agri-Food Trade Services: http://ats.agr.ca

Alberta Agriculture Food and Rural Development. Special Crops Newsletter: http://www.agric.gov.ab.ca/index.html

CanadaEuropa: http://www.canadaeuropa.gc.ca

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade:
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

ExportSource: http://exportsource.gc.ca

European Union Online: http://europa.eu.int

Foodlink.com: http://www.food-link.com/web/
food_link_en/acquisti/vetrine/vetrina/sellers_list.asp

Industry Canada (Strategis): http://strategis.ic.gc.ca

InfoExport: http://www.infoexport.gc.ca

Italy Businessnet.com: http://italybusinessnet.com

U.S. Department of Agriculture: http://www.usda.gov

1. All monetary amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise indicated. The conversion rate to Canadian dollars is based on IDD Information Services, Tradeline, July 2002.

2. For contact information regarding key organizations mentioned in this report, see Key Contacts and Support Services.