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Source: Castanea Expo
2025 (Florence, Dec. 12–14, 2025)
FLORENCE ITALY — CASTANEAEXPO, a specialized international trade fair dedicated exclusively to the global chestnut industry, concluded successfully, highlighting the sector’s growing importance in the global agricultural economy.
Organized by Firenze Fiera SpA, the exhibition provided a comprehensive overview of the industry, positioning chestnut cultivation as both a vital natural heritage and a sustainable economic pillar for mountainous regions.
Designed as a “supply chain fair,” the event served as a strategic gathering point for a diverse array of stakeholders. The scope of the expo spanned the entire value chain, bridging upstream research—such as genetic studies, nursery management, and agronomy—with downstream commercial sectors including food innovation, industrial processing, international trade, and green tourism.
Throughout the fair, organizers highlighted the deep-rooted nature of chestnut cultivation across Italy, emphasizing its role as a crucial source of income for mountain communities. As global demand for high-quality chestnuts continues to surge, the event showcased two significant structural trends currently shaping Italy, Europe's leading chestnut exporter: the restoration of historic, previously abandoned traditional groves and the establishment of new, intensive plantings aimed at boosting high-value production.
A major highlight of the expo was the presentation of results from extensive investments by Italian universities and specialized research centers. These institutions demonstrated their leadership in genetic research, disease management strategies, and modern crop management. Visitors had the opportunity to witness the convergence of ancient heritage and 21st-century innovation through the display of the latest patents in harvesting machinery and processing technology.
Beyond its role as a commercial platform, CASTANEAEXPO functioned as a global call to action for sustainable economic models. By uniting experts in food innovation and environmental promotion, the fair successfully redefined the chestnut industry’s role within the global market.
For industry professionals in attendance, the event set a new international benchmark, highlighting the importance of integrating traditional heritage with modern technology for the future of the global chestnut sector.
According to industry estimates, global chestnut production exceeds 2 million tons annually, with China accounting for the majority of global supply.