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US reduces tariffs on Italian pasta imports
The Trump administration has significantly lowered proposed tariffs on pasta from 13 Italian producers, avoiding a potential price surge for American consumers. The initial rate of nearly 92% would have pushed total import taxes above the value of the products themselves.
Background on the dispute
The US Commerce Department had accused the Italian firms of dumping-selling pasta in the US at prices below fair market value-undermining domestic producers. A preliminary ruling in 2025 threatened tariffs of 91.74%, which, combined with existing EU import duties, would have exceeded 100% of the product's value.
Economists warned such measures could worsen inflation, while Italian officials feared political fallout, particularly for Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who maintains close ties with President Trump.
Revised tariff rates announced
On Thursday, Italy's foreign ministry confirmed the US had scaled back the tariffs, calling it a recognition of "constructive cooperation" from Italian companies. The new rates range from 2.26% for La Molisana to 13.98% for other producers-far below the original 91.74%.
"Commerce's post-preliminary analysis indicates that Italian pasta makers have addressed many of Commerce's concerns."
US Commerce Department spokesperson, via CBS News
Broader trade tensions
The pasta dispute reflects Trump's aggressive trade policies, which aim to protect US industries but often face criticism for raising consumer costs. Recent months have seen other tariffs softened or delayed, including a postponed hike on furniture imports and exemptions for key food items like coffee, bananas, and beef.
Despite the reduction, the 13 affected firms account for only a fraction of Italy's pasta exports to the US, limiting the immediate impact on supply chains.
What's next
The US Commerce Department will finalize its decision after further review, with industry stakeholders submitting additional data. Analysts say the outcome could set a precedent for other EU-US trade disputes.
