Made in Italy and EU constraints, Lollobrigida is out: Farneticizing regulations The video

Italian Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida has sharply criticized European Union regulations during a speech at the Meeting of Rimini conference, calling them “absurd” and accusing Brussels of imposing excessive bureaucracy that harms Italian businesses. Speaking at the panel discussion titled “Fatto bene, tutti i giorni,” organized in collaboration with the Compagnia delle Opere, Lollobrigida argued that EU rules favor technocratic decision-making over practical economic interests, particularly affecting Italian enterprises. The minister’s remarks followed similar criticisms from other business leaders present at the event, including Denis Amadori of Gruppo Amadori, Stefano Berni of Consorzio Grana Padano, and Maurizio Fugatti of the Autonomous Province of Trento. The session was moderated by Alessandro Bracci, vice president of the Compagnia delle Opere and CEO of Teddy S.p.A. Lollobrigida emphasized that while the EU is necessary, its current direction risks undermining Italy’s cultural and entrepreneurial strengths, which he claims are essential to Europe’s future. He accused the EU of promoting a form of technocracy that prioritizes internal bureaucratic processes over global competitiveness. “Brussels imposes a technocracy that dictates decisions where it can, namely within its member states, especially Italy, but not in China or the United States,” he stated. According to Lollobrigida, this approach creates barriers for Italian companies trying to operate internationally, making them less competitive compared to their foreign counterparts. The minister further stressed that Italy plays a unique role in shaping Europe’s identity and influence. “Without Italy and its artistic and entrepreneurial culture, Europe will go nowhere,” he said. He contrasted the EU’s original vision, rooted in the 1957 Rome Treaties, which aimed at prosperity through wealth creation and geopolitical influence, with today’s EU, which he described as weakened and overly focused on self-referential mechanisms. This shift, he argued, has led to a disconnect between EU policies and the real-world needs of citizens and businesses. Lollobrigida called for a return to a more pragmatic and people-centered approach, one that aligns with the values and aspirations of European populations rather than being driven solely by technocrats. He pointed out that Italian entrepreneurs have struggled in the global market due to these regulatory hurdles, which he believes could be reduced through more flexible and realistic EU policies. His comments reflect growing concerns among Italian policymakers and business leaders about the impact of EU regulations on national industries. While the EU has long been a key player in shaping Italy’s economy, recent years have seen increasing calls for greater autonomy and reform. Lollobrigida’s criticism adds to a broader debate about how best to balance European integration with national interests and economic vitality. As the meeting concluded, the discussions highlighted the tension between maintaining European unity and addressing the specific challenges faced by individual member states. With the EU facing mounting pressures from both within and outside its borders, the need for policy adjustments that support rather than hinder national economies has become increasingly urgent. For now, Lollobrigida’s remarks stand as a clear indication of the frustrations felt by some Italian officials toward the bloc’s current trajectory.