Carpigiani's workers assembling ice cream machines.[Photo by Xia Shengquan]

President Xi Jinping made a state visit to Italy from March 21 to March 24. His trip launched the official start of negotiations of the Sino-Italian cooperation.

In Zhongshan, there is a "sweet" business that originated in Italy. Carpigiani, the world famous Italian ice cream brand, established its only manufacturing factory in China 13 years ago in the Torch Development Zone of Zhongshan. The company has florished in China, and it has recently witnessed some "sweet" rapid business growth in the last several years. 

"We settled down in the Torch Development Zone in 2006, and we officially registered and founded the Carpigiani Zhongshan Factory in 2007," said Xu Lining, General Manager of Carpigiani China. He added that Carpigiani had relocated the factory in 2016, and it has since expanded its production area. At present, the company is seeing about a 30% annual growth in output value. 

"We not only produce ice cream equipment, but we have also spread the healthy and fashionable Italian ice cream food culture. We bring a sweet and happy life to people all over the world," said Xu Lining. In recent years, Carpigiani has spared no effort in passing on its cultural heritage, Xu added. 

It was even reported that Carpigiani has its own ice cream museum and ice cream university. The company also sponsors, along with other companies, the handmade ice cream world cup, "The China Gelato Championship," and the ice cream culture festival.

Today, Carpigiani has become a leader in the manufacture of fresh ice cream, desserts, and other quality food.