World Pasta Day Marks 25 Years with 17 Million Tons Produced Globally

The annual observance of World Pasta Day on October 25 highlights a significant turning point for the global pasta sector.

According to the International Pasta Organisation (IPO) annual report, global production has reached approximately 17 million tons per year, up from around 9 million tons at the start of the organisation’s activity.

Per Person Annual Consumption Report. Credit: International Pasta Organisation (IPO)

The IPO, founded in 2005 with the aim of promoting pasta’s production and nutritional value, is marking its 20th anniversary in 2025.

Production growth has been steady over the past two decades.

The IPO’s data indicate that the number of countries producing over 20,000 tons annually has grown to around 40. 

Within this expansion, Italy retains a leadership role. In 2024 it produced approximately 4.2 million tons of pasta and exported nearly 60% of that volume, underscoring its dual role as producer and exporter.

Industry players are set to gather in Istanbul from October 24 to 26, 2025 for the World Pasta Day event, organised by Turkey’s Turkish Pasta Manufacturers Association (TMSD) and MÜSİAD in partnership with the IPO. The agenda includes panel discussions, tastings, and industry-wide networking. 

The IPO emphasises that pasta remains compatible with balanced nutrition when consumed with other healthy foods and highlights its relatively low environmental impact compared with many processed foods. 

Metrics such as production volume and export growth are expected to dominate discussion at this year’s gathering, as the sector adapts to evolving consumer demands and supply chain dynamics.