Masahiro Okafuji, Chairman & CEO of ITOCHU, Awarded the Title of Grand Officer (“Grande Ufficiale”) of the Order of the Star of Italy (“Ordine della Stella d’Italia”)

December 6, 2018

ITOCHU Corporation (headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo; hereinafter “ITOCHU”) announced that Masahiro Okafuji, Chairman & CEO, was awarded the title of Grand Officer (“Grande Ufficiale”) of the Order of the Star of Italy (“Ordine della Stella d’Italia”) by the President of the Italian Republic.

Ordine della Stella d’Italia is an order of merit awarded to persons who have made major contributions in promoting friendly relations and co-operation with other countries, and forming ties with Italy.
The title of Grande Ufficiale is among the highest awards conferred to Italian and foreign citizens.

The award ceremony was held on Thursday, December 6, at the official residence of the Ambassador of the Italian Republic to Japan, His Excellency Mr. Giorgio Starace.

Initiated by Okafuji, ITOCHU’s Textile Company successively organized Giorgio Armani, BVLGARI, TRUSSARDI, Richard Ginori, Mila Schön and many other renowned Italian brands to spark the Italy boom in Japan.
The award recognizes contributions made by Okafuji in connecting Japan and Italy through the expansion of the fashion and lifestyle businesses, and in enabling Italian traditions and culture to spread among Japan.

ITOCHU has been involved in a range of businesses with Italy including fashion, textiles and foods over a number of years, and handles top-class volumes of Italian goods in Japan.
The company will continue to contribute to deepening the relationship between Japan and Italy through its businesses and diversified exchange projects in cultural and other fields between both countries.

The award ceremony held at the official residence of the Ambassador of the Italian Republic to Japan