Bruno Bolfo, founder of the Duferco Group and a notable figure in the global steel industry, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2026, in Lugano, Switzerland. He was 84 years old.

Born in Lavagna, Italy, Bolfo began his career with Siderexport, the international trading division of Italsider. During his tenure there, he gained valuable experience in commodity markets, including a significant period working in New York City. This international exposure helped shape the global perspective that would influence his later business ventures.

In 1979, Bolfo, alongside a group of colleagues from Liguria, established Duferco, initially operating out of New York and São Paulo, Brazil. What started as a modest entrepreneurial project grew into a major industrial and trading conglomerate with an extensive global reach, spanning the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Under Bolfo’s leadership, the company diversified beyond steel into sectors such as energy, shipping, and logistics while maintaining its industrial foundation.

Known for his foresight and strategic acumen, Bolfo was adept at navigating the complexities of global markets. His approach combined innovation with a commitment to ethical business practices. Beyond steel, his business interests included hospitality, wine production, and medical technology, reflecting a broad entrepreneurial vision anchored in long-term growth and human capital.

Colleagues and associates describe Bolfo as a humble and discreet leader who earned respect through integrity and steady determination rather than public prominence. He was regarded as a generous mentor who valued optimism, trust, and mutual respect as essential elements for sustainable business success.

Bolfo is survived by his wife, two children, and two grandchildren. His influence extends to numerous professionals and partners worldwide who worked closely with him over the course of his career. His legacy encompasses not only the international business empire he built but also the principles and values he championed throughout his life.

His impact on the steel industry and his broader contributions to global commerce are expected to endure, inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs.