Italian agrifood exports to the United States, estimated at €7.8 billion in 2024, could suffer a loss of up to €2 billion annually due to the 25% duties announced by the Trump administration. This is highlighted by the Unimpresa Study Center, pointing out that last year exports of Italian food, wine and food products to the U.S. grew by 17% to €6.67 billion. The U.S. is the second largest destination market for Italian agri-food products, absorbing about 12% of the sector's total exports, which could reach €70 billion in 2025. Top-selling products include wine (€1.7 billion), olive oil (up to €937 million), pasta (€805 million) and cheese (up to €500 million). The imposition of duties would raise costs for U.S. importers, reducing the competitiveness of Italian products compared to those of other countries such as Argentina and Australia. Unimpresa's analysis hypothesizes two scenarios: a direct impact of €1.95 billion due to higher prices and an indirect impact, with an estimated 15% to 30% reduction in production, which could cause losses of €1.75 billion. According to Spadafora, prompt diplomatic action is needed to avoid a severe blow to the sector and preserve an economic and cultural heritage that is essential to the country.
|