In a significant milestone for Romania’s culinary landscape, Banat officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding with IGCAT (International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts, and Tourism), confirming its candidacy for the European Region of Gastronomy 2028 and entry into the World region of Gastronomy Platform. The signing took place during the 29th Platform Meeting hosted by Sicily, European Region of Gastronomy 2025, from 5-9 May 2025.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Diane Dodd, President of IGCAT, and Dr. Simona Neumann, CEO of APDT (Association for the Tourism Promotion and Development of the Timis County – Visit-Timis), together with Caius Merșa, Consultant of Banat’s bid. With this step, Banat joins IGCAT’s growing Platform of World Regions of Gastronomy where already two Romanian regions have been awarded for showcasing their vibrant food culture and strengthen regional development through gastronomy.
Banat becomes the third of four Romanian regions to enter the platform, following in the footsteps of Sibiu, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2019 and Harghita, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2027. Sibiu and Harghita’s dedication and success have paved the way for future Romanian regions and established a strong foundation of interregional cooperation.
“We are excited to welcome Banat as a candidate for the European Region of Gastronomy 2028. Romania is proving to be leading us all with their commitment to natural, organic and healthy ingredients. Together with Sibiu and Harghita leading the way, we are confident that Banat and Drobogea (a fourth Romanian candidate region) will contribute meaningfully to the network with its unique cultural and culinary identity,” stated Dr. Diane Dodd.
Representing Harghita, Károly Szabó, Executive Director of the Harghita Community Development Association, was present at the signing to express support and encouragement. “We are proud to support Banat in their journey. The Regions of Gastronomy platform is not just a title, it is a long-term commitment to collaboration, cultural preservation, and innovation. We believe Romania’s growing participation will foster stronger partnerships and shared knowledge across Romania and indeed Europe.”
Dr. Simona Neumann emphasized Banat’s enthusiasm for the journey ahead: “We are honoured to join the World Regions of Gastronomy Platform and inspired by Sibiu and Harghita’s achievements. Our candidacy represents a commitment to promoting Banat’s heritage, encouraging sustainable practices, and empowering communities through gastronomy.”
The candidacy of Banat reinforces the growing momentum of Romanian regions in IGCAT’s World Regions of Gastronomny Platform and highlights the importance of regional cooperation. As Banat begins its journey toward the title, it joins a vibrant network working to safeguard food heritage, promote sustainable tourism, and reimagine the role of gastronomy in shaping a better future.
About the World/European Regions of Gastronomy
World/European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; driving environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; supporting balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlighting and supporting expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practices; and contributing to community health and well-being.
About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance of protecting and promoting distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguarding our planet, health, wellness and local economies.
IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.
IGCAT founded the World/European Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Websites for Foodie Travelers Award and the international Food Film Menu.
12 mayo 2025
