The Italian market, among Europe’s largest, is attractive in numerous sectors for American companies.

In a foreign country, the key to success is represented by a deep knowledge of the local market (local sector trends and forecasts, market dynamics, regulations) in which the company wishes to invest. Afterwards, a global strategy can be developed and adapted to the target environment and culture; moreover, some marketing tools, such as catalogs, the price, and packaging, have to conform to local conventions. Therefore, a Go-To-Market Strategy is essential.

If you are considering investment in Italy, we suggest you to:

• Visit U.S. Government resources in Italy (export.gov) and the Italian Government resources (INVITALIA).
• Contact local U.S. business support organizations (ex: the American Chamber of Commerce in Italy).

Furthermore, it is compulsory to enroll the American company in Italy, to be able to assign the company estates and vehicles. Through the enrollment, a branch of the American company is created in Italy. The enrollment procedure includes the following steps:

• Provision of the official documents proving the existence of the American company and their certified translation into Italian;
• Filing with an Italian notary of the resolution whereby the Board of Directors of the American company approved the opening of an Italian branch.
• Registration of branch offices in the Registro delle Imprese.
• Application for a VAT identification number for the Italian branch at the competent Chamber of Commerce.

The U.S. represent the first country of origin among the foreign companies having a branch in Italy. In the table, you can find the first 10 American companies with a branch in Italy.