India, Italy agree to enhance agriculture and energy cooperation, investments

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal speaks at the Italy-India Business Forum, in Bresica on Thursday (June 5, 2025). Italy’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani also present. Piyush Goyal-X through ANI | Photo Credit: =

Following Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal’s two-day visit to Italy, the two countries have resolved to work together on enhancing cooperation in a number of sectors, including various agricultural and energy sectors, the government said on Friday (June 6, 2025).

Mr. Goyal completed a two-day visit to Italy on June 5, following a three-day visit to France. During his time in Italy, he co-chaired the 22nd session of the India-Italy Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation (JCEC) along with Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Antonio Tajani. 

“Several concrete outcomes emerged from the JCEC,” the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said in a release. “India and Italy resolved to strengthen cooperation in agriculture and food processing, and to set up Joint Working Groups in the automobile and space sectors.” 

The two leaders and their teams also identified several opportunities for collaboration in sustainable agri-value chains, agri-machinery, food packaging technologies, and renewable energy. 

“They also agreed to work together in areas such as green hydrogen and biofuels and expressed intent to facilitate movement of skilled professionals between the two countries,” the release added.

According to the government, a delegation of leaders from about 90 companies accompanied Mr. Goyal on his trip, during which they visited Italian industries and held several meetings with local companies. 

“Shri Goyal also held one-on-one interactions with Italian corporate leaders and welcomed their plans to expand operations, manufacturing, or office presence in India,” the release said.

Data from the Department for the Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) shows that Italy accounts for 0.49% of all the foreign direct investment into India since 2000, at $3.6 billion. 

Published - June 06, 2025 05:47 pm IST