Italy isn't the world's largest producer of prunes, but its focus on quality, tradition, and sustainability makes it a strategic player. To understand the current landscape and future of the sector, Portal Ciruela spoke exclusively with Gherardo Rangoni Machiavelli, president of the MonteRé cooperative and Italian representative in the International Prune Association (IPA).
On the eve of the next IPA World Congress 2026 to be held in Modena, Rangoni details the climate challenges, growth opportunities, and how the Italian plum seeks to differentiate itself in a highly competitive market.
Quality as the Main Competitive Advantage
Founded in 1967, the MonteRé cooperative is today the only Italian company specializing in the sector, managing some 530 hectares that reached a record 2,000 tons in 2025. Although compared to giants like California or Chile it may seem like a modest production, Rangoni is clear about where its strength lies:
«"Being small doesn't mean being marginal. Our strength lies in the quality, the Italian origin of the product, and the fact that we are the only local producer in a country that consumes nearly 9,900 tons annually.".
Since 77% of domestic demand is met by imports, there is a enormous growth potential for local production, as long as the focus remains on variety Agent, known for its high sugar content and firm pulp.
The Challenges: Climate Change and Sustainability
The climate has become the main adversary. Spring frosts and summer hailstorms force farmers to constantly update their agronomic practices. In this scenario, innovation is non-negotiable. During the upcoming IPA Congress, Italy will lead the conversation on Carbon Farming. MonteRé already has a pilot project developed together with Professor Riccardo Valentini (2007 Nobel Peace Prize winner and member of the IPCC), demonstrating that plum orchards can be key allies in capturing CO2 and mitigating climate change.
Modena: The Global Epicenter of Plums in 2026
On May 18, the attention of the global industry will be focused on Agriturismo La Lupa, in Castelfranco Emilia, the venue for the IPA 2026 Congress. This event will bring together producers, cooperatives, and processing companies from around the world.
- Health and Nutrition: The functional benefits of prunes (intestinal, bone and cardiovascular health) will continue to be promoted.
- IPA Renewal: The results of the last 18 months of work to make the partnership more effective will be presented.
- Networking and Culture: A unique opportunity to combine business with Modena's rich gastronomic tradition (the birthplace of good Lambrusco and tortellini).
The Future: Health and New Markets
For Rangoni, the outlook is optimistic. The growing global trend toward healthy eating and the opening of markets in Asia—where the middle class values natural products of European origin—are key drivers that will boost demand over the next five years.
Read the Full Interview
Discover in depth Gherardo Rangoni's vision on international competition, the role of discount channels and the details of the highly anticipated congress in Modena.
📥 Download Full PDF: Interview with Gherardo Rangoni (IPA 2026 Italy)
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