Italy's PM Giorgia Meloni stressed the importance of the U.S. market for Italy, warning about the possible consequences of introducing new duties. "It would have heavy implications for Italian producers and would also penalize American consumers," she said yesterday during the award ceremony of the Master of the Art of Italian Cuisine Award at Palazzo Chigi. Meloni reiterated the need to avert a trade war between the United States and Europe, stressing that a tariff clash would not benefit either side. However, she added that Italy is ready to defend its productions if necessary.