YIBIN, Sichuan — The Second China International Famous Liquor Culture Festival opened on December 17 at the Yibin International Convention and Exhibition Center, drawing nearly 500 distinguished guests from more than 30 countries, where global leaders in spirits, culture, and trade gathered to celebrate and deepen cooperation in the international liquor industry.

Among the elite participants was former Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, whose presence underscored the international stature of the event. Renzi — a notable European statesman and former head of Italy’s government — delivered remarks at the opening ceremony, signaling strong interest from European leadership in advancing cultural and economic ties through the world’s renowned liquor traditions.

Matteo Renzi, Former Prime Minister of Italy

Supported by the China Light Industry Federation and guided by the Sichuan Provincial Government, the festival brought together key domestic and international industry figures, including representatives from major liquor brands such as Moutai, Yanghe, Fenjiu, Luzhou Laojiao, Langjiu, Diageo, and Pernod Ricard.

Ye Zhuang, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Sichuan Provincial People’s Congress

This festival not only showcased China’s rich heritage of baijiu and distilled spirits, but also served as a high-level platform for trade dialogue, cultural exchange, and market expansion between China and Europe’s beverage sectors. The presence of a European national leader of Matteo Renzi’s caliber highlighted the strategic role of spirits in cultural diplomacy, reinforcing mutual understanding and cooperation in the global food and beverage landscape.

Liu Zhongbo, Secretary of the Yibin Municipal Party Committee

Initiatives discussed at the event aimed to elevate international recognition of China’s liquor culture, strengthen export potential, and integrate global markets through shared heritage and economic collaboration, reflecting a broader strategy for China-Europe economic and cultural engagement in the beverage industry.