The Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) is set to embark on a new and meaningful mission in Japan from October 14 to 21, 2025.
This initiative features a comprehensive program that reaffirms the association’s ongoing commitment to promoting and safeguarding the tradition of the Vera Pizza Napoletana, in accordance with its internationally recognized disciplinary standards.
This mission is part of a multi-year journey that has seen AVPN play a leading role in Italy and around the world in enhancing and protecting a unique gastronomic heritage, widely acknowledged as an authentic expression of Neapolitan culture. Founded in 1984, AVPN has been instrumental in defining the quality standards of the Vera Pizza Napoletana, securing the STG (Traditional Specialty Guaranteed) designation from the European Union in 2010, and supporting the successful UNESCO recognition of the Neapolitan pizzaiuolo’s art as Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2017.
🇯🇵 AVPN Program in Japan
📍 Tuesday, October 14 – Kansai Region Technical seminar focused on fried pizza and Vera Pizza Napoletana at Pizzeria EN - Sanda (Hyogo), featuring in-depth training, networking opportunities, and a convivial evening dedicated to Neapolitan culinary culture.
📍 Thursday, October 16 – Kanto Region Second training session at Pizzeria GG Kamakura (Kanagawa), following the same format as the Kansai event.
🏆 Monday, October 20 – Tokyo At Pizzeria Parthenope, the Japanese Selection of the VERA PIZZA NAPOLETANA CHAMPION will take place, with competitors showcasing their skills in both fried and wood-fired pizza. The top three finalists will be awarded.
Tuesday, October 21 – AVPN Japan General Assembly 2025 Held at La Piccola Tavola (Eifukucho, Tokyo), the annual assembly will gather approximately 90 AVPN Japan affiliated pizzerias to:
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Announce the results of the national selection
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Host the certification and plaque award ceremony
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Plan AVPN Japan’s activities for 2026
The mission will be led by Stefano Auricchio, General Director of AVPN, with the participation of:
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Francesco De Simone (Cos'e Pazz Kekko De Simone Pizzeria)
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Salvatore De Angelis (Salvatore Zombino Pizzeria e Friggitoria)
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James Di Porzio
In collaboration with: AVPN Japan
Technical partners: Molino Polselli, Ciao Pomodoro, Kbirr, Euroiovine, Acetaia Bellei
This mission further strengthens the bond between AVPN and Japan, where the culture of Vera Pizza Napoletana continues to flourish, rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and excellence.
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