The technology training centers were created with the principal objective of positioning Italy within those countries in economic ascension. They not only illustrate Italy as a dependable provider of machinery, but as well as a qualified intermediator in training and project development on specification. Italian capital goods represent the best of what's "Made in Italy" to the world market. Advanced technologies, innovative solutions, flexibility and creativity are the pillars of strength that characterize what Italy has to offer. Among the most technologically advanced countries, Italy

Italy produces approximately 50% of the machinery used to produce footwear and leather goods around the world and 80% of tanning machinery globally, according to Assomac, an association that represents Italian manufacturers of machines for footwear, leather and tannery industries. Many of the manufacturers are small, with the entire industry employing approximately 6,200 people in Italy. There are three basic tanning centers in Italy, says Peter Helfer, a managing partner at Campex LLC, an Exeter, N.H., a company that sells Italian leather-making machinery in North America. Whole hides and