Why learn Italian?
Italian is the seventh most widely spoken language in Europe. It is the key to one of one of the most culturally and gastronomically rich countries in the world and one of the three dominant economic powers in the European Union.
Key economic power
With a population of 61 million, Italy is the fourth largest country in the European Union and will be one of three dominant economic powers in the bloc once Britain leaves.
Thriving economy
Italy was the ninth largest economy in the world last year, according to the International Monetary Fund. The backbone of the Italian economy is small and medium-sized firms producing high quality consumer goods like fashion, foods and appliances. Famous companies include carmaker Fiat, coffee company Lavazza and luxury fashion giant Gucci.
Large market for Irish exports
Italy is the seventh largest market in Europe for Irish exports and the fourth most important market for services – primarily insurance and computer services, according to Enterprise Ireland.
