The United States has significantly lowered proposed punitive tariffs on several major Italian pasta producers, following a reassessment of their activities in the American market. The decision, announced by Italy's foreign ministry on Thursday, marks a substantial shift from initial plans that would have imposed heavy additional duties starting in 2026.
Sharp Reductions for Key Producers
In a major relief for the Italian food industry, the U.S. Department of Commerce has recalculated the proposed duties. The tariff for La Molisana has been cut to just 2.26%, down dramatically from the initially proposed extra levy of 92%. Another major producer, Garofalo, will now face a duty of 13.98%.
This review comes after an October announcement where the U.S. accused 13 Italian pasta companies, particularly La Molisana and Garofalo, of selling pasta at unfairly low prices—a practice known as dumping. The original plan was to impose the 92% duty on top of the standard 15% rate applied to most European Union imports, effective January 2026.
Outcome for the Broader Industry
The remaining 11 pasta producers, which were not individually examined during the U.S. review process, will now face a collective tariff rate of 9.09%. Italy's foreign ministry stated that the recalculation signals U.S. authorities recognize the constructive cooperation of Italian companies.
The ministry confirmed it will continue to assist the affected firms in the coming weeks. The full conclusions of the U.S. administrative review are scheduled for publication on March 11.
Political and Economic Implications
The initial threat of steep pasta tariffs posed a political challenge for Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has cultivated close ties with U.S. President Donald Trump. The situation tested whether that relationship could shield Italian businesses from aggressive trade measures.
The economic stakes are considerable. According to Italy's national statistics agency ISTAT, the country's total pasta exports were valued at over 4 billion euros (approximately $4.7 billion) in 2024. The United States represents a crucial market, worth nearly $800 million to Italian pasta firms.
The resolution, while not eliminating the duties entirely, substantially mitigates a potential trade dispute and reduces the financial burden on a iconic sector of Italian food manufacturing.
