Investment framework and opportunities in Italy

Procedures Relative to Foreign Investment

Freedom of Establishment: As a member of the European Union, Italy applies the principle of freedom of establishment and non-discrimination. Thus, foreign investors can carry out any type of activity in the same conditions as a local investor. In addition, no specific legal text governs foreign direct investment. The regime is in alignment with that applicable to local investment.
Acquisition of Holdings: Acquiring a majority holding in the capital of a local company is authorised in Italy, except in certain sectors (such as telecommunication and energy).
Obligation to Declare: Italian Trade Agency, the agency responsible for the promotion of foreign investment in the country, gives information about the authorisations necessary for setting up business.
Requests For Specific Authorisations: Foreign investors are subject to particular measures (prior authorisation issued by the competent ministry and restrictions concerning the permitted amount of equity acquisitions) in the following sectors:
- telecommunications and press
- airline and shipping companies
- electricity and gas
- petroleum exploitation
For further information, consult the ICE website.

Investment Aid Agency: Invitalia (National Agency for Inward Investment and Economic Development, Italian Ministry of Economy)
Tenders, Projects and Public Procurement: Ted - Tenders Electronic daily, Business Opportunities in the European Union
DgMarket, Tenders Worldwide
Other Useful Resources: Italian Trade Agency (ITA)
Confindustria (association of manufacturing and service companies in Italy)

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