Exports Shatter Records with Asia at the Forefront (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Italy – Premium gelato shipments from Italy climbed to €372 million in the first half of 2025, propelled by a sharp rise in demand from Asian consumers seeking high-quality frozen treats.[1]
Exports Shatter Records with Asia at the Forefront
The sector posted a robust 19% gain over the prior year, when exports totaled €313 million in the same period.[1]
Italy solidified its position as the world’s fourth-largest gelato exporter, trailing only Germany, France, and Belgium. Asia emerged as the standout performer, with exports to the region soaring 72% to €34.4 million from €20 million a year earlier. East Asia alone saw a 28% uptick, reaching €8.7 million. This growth elevated Asia’s share of Italy’s total gelato exports to 9.2%, a 44% increase from H1 2024. Such momentum underscores a pivotal shift toward Eastern markets.
| Region/Period | H1 2024 (€M) | H1 2025 (€M) | Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Exports | 313 | 372 | 19 |
| Asia | 20 | 34.4 | 72 |
| East Asia | 6.8 | 8.7 | 28 |
Tonitto 1939 Sharpens Focus on Key Asian Markets
Producer Tonitto 1939 ramped up its regional efforts, zeroing in on Japan and China while building on footholds in South Korea, the Philippines, and Taiwan. The company prepared for its third straight appearance at Foodex Japan, set for March 10 to 13 in Tokyo. Trade contacts from international fairs rose about 35% between 2024 and 2025, with keen interest from Japanese distributors.
Tonitto allocated 10% of its annual budget to Asia-specific marketing. It pursued commercial deals in Japan for sales launches within 12 months and cultivated ties in China, where the frozen dessert sector expands at 6% annually. Malaysia served as a gateway for Southeast Asia. Product adaptations, including localized packaging, supported these initiatives.
Consumer Trends Reshape Gelato Strategies
Asian preferences leaned heavily toward fruit sorbets like mango, yuzu, and tropical varieties, which captured over 40% of sales in multiple countries. Frozen yogurt gained traction as a healthier option. Urban youth favored fusion flavors such as matcha-strawberry or Tokyo-style chocolate.
Buyers prioritized single-serve packs from 100 to 250 grams for convenience stores, alongside premium designs highlighting ingredients. Longer shelf lives accommodated intricate supply chains. Sustainability, natural components, and traceability increasingly influenced choices. Producers responded by minimizing additives and artificial colors.
- Fruit sorbets dominate with 40%+ market share in key areas.
- Fusion flavors appeal to younger demographics.
- Convenience and clean labels drive packaging innovations.
- Southeast Asia hubs like Malaysia enable broader reach.
- Annual investments target tailored marketing pushes.
Key Takeaways
- Asia’s 72% export surge signals long-term potential for Italian gelato.
- Companies like Tonitto 1939 invest heavily in market-specific adaptations.
- Trends favor natural, convenient, and innovative flavors amid rising premium demand.
Italy’s gelato industry stands poised for sustained expansion in Asia, where evolving tastes meet authentic craftsmanship. What strategies should Italian exporters prioritize next? Share your thoughts in the comments.
