Focusing on trade in Italy.

• Author: ROSS, IAN

Anyone pursuing an overseas business connection, planning a vacation or simply wanting to learn more about Italy can get a taste of that country's economic climate, culture and cuisine during a one-day information session at Cambrian College in Sudbury.

The consul general of Italy is expected among the slate of speakers delivering a primer course on how businesses in Northern Ontario can develop bilateral trade opportunities with Italy and gain access to the European Union market.

Sonia Del Missier, Cambrian's vice-president of strategic development, says the May 16 session at the Barrydowne Road campus represents a first step in forging stronger ties with Italy and the Italian community in Sudbury.

"Our intent is to determine if there is sufficient interest to go beyond the one-day workshop possibly in mounting a trade mission to Italy next year," Del Missier says.

It's a great opportunity for local businesses to develop some initial contacts and gain some general information that might lead to joint venture opportunities and...