In recent years, Italy and China have maintained a strong economic relationship despite Italy’s shift away from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s visit to Beijing highlighted Italy’s intention to continue fostering cooperation, with a focus on high-value sectors and enhancing trade.

China-EU rail freight volumes on the main Eurasian corridor fell by 48% in the first semester of 2023, back to the pre-pandemic level of 2019.