Italy has witnessed a robust resurgence in hosting congresses and conventions, as revealed by data presented at the Italian Knowledge Leaders event in Rome. According to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Italy secured the second position in Europe for international associative congresses in 2022, organizing a total of 560 events. Remarkably, this marks Italy's highest ranking in the past decade, positioning it as the third globally, following the United States. This upward trend is anticipated to continue through 2023 and possibly into 2024. Spain, Germany, the UK, and France, former frontrunners ahead of Italy, now follow its lead. Among the top 100 cities worldwide for hosting conferences, Italy boasts six prominent cities: Rome, Milan, Bologna, Florence, Turin, and Naples, making Italy the country with the most cities in this prestigious list. Daniela Santanchè, Minister of Tourism, emphasized the strategic significance of the congress sector for the nation's tourism development. The economic impact is noteworthy, with congress tourists spending approximately two and a half times more than typical tourists. Carlotta Ferrari, President of Convention Bureau Italy, stressed that securing a bid to host a congress is not guaranteed. International associations select destinations through a competitive process, significantly enhancing a country's heritage and prestige upon frequent selection.
The Italian Knowledge Leaders event's third edition convened representatives from national institutions, industry associations, and Convention Bureau Italia-associated entities. The event attracted forty presidents of international associations, with thirty attending for the first time. Minister Santanchè highlighted events like Italian Knowledge Leaders as pivotal in making Italy highly appealing to major associative congresses, acting as potent attractors for top-tier tourism. Ferrari underscored how this initiative affirms Italy's allure for major international congresses, thanks to leading figures in the scientific, academic, and national research communities presiding over international association boards. This project offers a significant opportunity to promote Italy's intellectual capital, transforming its image from a beautiful holiday destination to a nation of knowledge and learning. Sandro Pappalardo, Enit board member, highlighted Italy's participation in such events, enhancing international visibility and stimulating the country's economic and cultural development.
