Gianluca Gallo: Championing Calabrian Excellence
Tradition and Innovation as the cornerstones of Economic Growth
Gianluca Gallo, a key figure in the Government of Calabria, has dedicated his career to advancing the region’s agricultural and economic sectors. He aims to elevate Calabria’s global presence by promoting quality, collaboration, and awareness of its rich heritage.
Gianluca Gallo's story begins in the picturesque town of Cassano Ionio, near the historic plains of Sibari. Born into a family with strong legal and political ties, he pursued classical studies before earning a law degree and working alongside his father, also a lawyer. However, his fascination with politics ignited at an early age, inspired by speeches and debates that shaped his intellectual curiosity. By the age of 20, he was actively engaged in the Christian Democracy (DC) youth movement, where he began his journey toward becoming a key figure in Calabrian politics.
Over the years, Gallo held various non-elective and elective positions, rising through the ranks of local and regional government. He served twice as the mayor of Cassano Ionio with overwhelming public support, and was elected four times as a regional councillor, securing over 20,000 votes. Today, as Calabria’s Regional Minister for Agriculture, Hunting, Fishing, Forestry, Internal Areas, Linguistic Minorities, Transport, Sustainable Mobility, and National and International Promotion of Agrifood, he plays a crucial role in shaping the region’s economic strategy.
Gallo considers agriculture the backbone of Calabria’s economy, emphasizing its potential for global expansion. His primary mission is to enhance the region’s agricultural output while ensuring its international recognition. Under his leadership, Calabria has experienced a significant surge in exports—over 20% growth in the last quarter alone—demonstrating the success of his policies.
He highlights four essential pillars for economic development:
- Innovation: Embracing efficiency, automation, and technology, particularly in agriculture and agribusiness, while attracting younger generations to the sector.
- Education and Training: Encouraging continuous learning to keep pace with industry advancements.
- Cooperation: Promoting unity among Calabria’s SMEs to create high-quality products rather than competing against each other.
- Awareness: Cultivating a deeper appreciation among Calabrians for their rich cultural and historical heritage, which serves as a foundation for economic growth.
While innovation is a key driver of progress, Gallo also underscores the importance of preserving Calabria’s traditions. Rural heritage, culinary customs, and artisanal craftsmanship define the region’s identity and serve as unique selling points in global markets. Products such as liquorice, citrus fruits, olive oil, and specialty cured meats attract international attention due to their artisanal quality and deep-rooted cultural significance.
Additionally, Calabria’s unique geography—800 kilometres of stunning coastline, mountains exceeding 2,500 metres, and a Mediterranean climate—enhances its appeal. The region’s biodiversity and pristine landscapes provide an unparalleled setting for sustainable agricultural and tourism initiatives.
For Gallo, the key to success is not mass production but an unwavering commitment to quality. He firmly believes that Calabria’s competitive advantage lies in the exceptional standard of its products, which should be marketed collectively rather than through individual competition. By uniting efforts and focusing on branding, Calabria’s enterprises can secure a strong position in the global marketplace.
A testament to the region’s rising prominence is the upcoming national New Year’s Eve celebration hosted by RAI in Reggio Calabria. The event will showcase the beauty and cultural richness of the area, reinforcing its status as one of Italy’s most captivating destinations.
Gallo’s leadership is paving the way for a Calabria that not only preserves its roots but also embraces modern advancements to thrive in international markets. His strategic vision—anchored in tradition, innovation, and collective growth—offers a promising future for the region’s SMEs. By fostering a sense of pride and awareness among Calabrians, he is ensuring that the region’s heritage and economic potential are recognized and celebrated worldwide.
In the words of Gianluca Gallo, “If we prioritize quality in everything we do, there will be no limits to our growth.” With this philosophy at the heart of his mission, Calabria is well on its way to becoming a global force in the agricultural and agribusiness sectors.
