MOGADISHU — A high-level delegation of Italian business leaders arrived in Somalia on Friday as the country steps up efforts to strengthen trade and investment ties with Italy ahead of the upcoming Somalia–Italy Business Week 2026.
The delegation was received at Aden Adde International Airport by Somalia’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Jamal Mohamed Hassan, alongside government officials and members of the private sector.
Officials said the visit forms part of preparations for Somalia–Italy Business Week 2026, an initiative aimed at deepening economic cooperation, promoting investment opportunities and expanding commercial partnerships between the two countries.
The event is expected to bring together government representatives, investors, entrepreneurs and business executives from Somalia and Italy to explore opportunities across key sectors, including infrastructure, manufacturing, agriculture, energy, fisheries and financial services.
Speaking during the reception, Somali officials highlighted the importance of strengthening economic relations with Italy, one of Somalia’s longstanding international partners.
The visit comes as Somalia seeks to attract greater foreign investment and encourage international companies to explore opportunities in its growing economy following years of reforms aimed at improving the business environment.
Organizers said the business week will serve as a platform for dialogue between public and private sector stakeholders, helping identify new areas of cooperation and investment.
The initiative is being jointly organized by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, IBS Bank, PollLink Group, and the Somali Embassy in Italy.
Officials expressed optimism that the engagement would contribute to increased trade flows, job creation and stronger economic partnerships between Somalia and Italy in the coming years.
Further meetings between the visiting delegation and Somali government officials, business leaders and investors are expected during their stay in Mogadishu.
