The first establishment of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in China dates back to 1903, when the Italian Consul General in Shanghai, Cesare Nerazzini, initiated efforts to promote greater economic penetration in China. He called upon Italian merchants and entrepreneurs to form a founding committee, which led to the establishment of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in China on January 30, 1903. On March 4 of the same year, Nerazzini submitted a report to the Italian Ministry of Agriculture, Industry, and Commerce seeking official recognition and funding.
The first president was Achille Riva, and the first secretary was Giovanni Vigna dal Ferro. The Chamber gradually grew and became one of the largest Italian chambers abroad, contributing significantly to Italy’s commercial interests in China.