Ten exceptional creative enterprises from the Eastern Cape are captivating international audiences at the prestigious Mostra Internazionale dell’Artigianato (MIDA) in Italy, now in its landmark 90th edition.
Hosted at the iconic Fortezza da Basso in Florence, Italy, this world-renowned showcase runs from 25 April to 3 May 2026. At this vibrant international fair, featuring over 500 artisans from around the world, the Eastern Cape exhibitors are making a striking impression. Showcasing innovation, craftsmanship, and cultural richness, participating Eastern Cape brands include Queenstown’s Bau Instyle and iRhali, Gqeberha’s La Mohair, Soyama Trading and NC Upholsters, kuGompo City’s Infix Creations, Ozzys Eco Décor, Zazi Clothing, and Castellano Beltrame, as well as Bathurst’s Leafline.
Leading this dynamic showcase is the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC), represented by Trade Promotion Specialist Linda Lubengu.
“The presence of these companies underscores a commitment to elevating Eastern Cape talent, unlocking global market opportunities, and forging powerful trade connections between South Africa and Italy. These companies are being connected with their international peers and are learning what it takes to compete on a global scale. The objective is for them to connect with buyers and potential customers so they can take advantage of the opportunities presented by the export market. We want to take Eastern Cape global while supporting their global competitiveness and sustainability,” says Lubengu.
In a show of support for the Eastern Cape creatives exhibiting at the fair, South Africa’s Ambassador to Italy Nosipho Jezile, supported by Assistant Consular Camilla Sarra, conducted a walkabout of the exhibition area interacting with the business owners and with their fine craftsmanship on the second day of the international craft fair.
Visitors can expect an inspiring journey through a curated collection of standout creations from cutting-edge fashion and accessories to refined furniture design, artistic craftsmanship, wellness products, and exquisite jewellery. The exhibition also celebrates global excellence in food and wine, making it a true feast for the senses.
Irhali’s Zipho Rapiya says for the Queenstown outfit, exhibiting in Italy is a significant milestone for their brand, and is also a representation of their growth and development.
“It’s a testament to the creativity, craftsmanship and exclusivity of Irhali, and the vibrant culture of South Africa. We are excited to share our unique voice with the world, and learning from different cultures we could draw inspiration from. We are hoping to leave Florence having established long-term business partnerships which will allow us to take our brand global,” Rapiya says.
Also from Queenstown, Luyolo Dlikilili, the inspiration behind Bau Instyle, says exhibiting in Florence has provided an invaluable opportunity to assess the global resonance of the brand’s vision beyond their local market, enabling them to determine whether their brand not only honours its South African heritage, but also engages a discerning global clientele and transcends denim street cultural boundaries.
“We are deeply encouraged by the exceptional response to our exhibition stand, the significant growth in our international social media following, and the substantial order volumes we have received from new markets,” Dlikilili says.
KuGompo’s Zazi Clothing says exhibiting in an international platform is a defining milestone that reinforces their position as a leading voice in African luxury fashion.
“Platforms of this scale open strategic doors for trade, investment, and collaboration, allowing us to expand our footprint, and contribute meaningfully to the global fasjhion economy,” says Zazi Clothing founder Onwaba Mleve.
Operating from kuGompo City, Castellano Beltrame’s Claudia Heywood says participation in MIDA opens direct access to a much wider, global audience of highend specifiers, designers, retailers and other potential buyers.
“It builds networking opportunities that can evolve into the representation of the brand in other countries that can lead to export opportunities,” says Heywood.
Lucille Bosman from Gqeberha’s NC Upholsters says the MIDA exhibition marks an important milestone in their journey to position South African furniture manufacturing within the global marketplace.
“It has provided a platform to showcase our craftsmanship, bespoke capabilities, and innovative designs while engaging directly with international buyers and unlocking new export opportunities,” says Bosman.
