(Finance) – The introduction of duties by the Trump Administration it would be a Hard blow for the Italian agri -food sectorin particular for artisan products, already characterized by higher production costs and a competitive disadvantage position compared to industrial products. This is what complains CNA agri -food underlining the protectionist policy strongly penalizes the truth Made in Italy, which is based on the quality and tradition of craftsmanship, putting the turnover of many small and medium -sized enterprises in the sector at risk. Italian exports to the USA represents a key market for the agri -food sector. The United States are among the main importers of Italian food products, with a value that exceeds 5 billion euros per year.
Among the products most affected by the new rates include:
Pasta and tomato preserves: Italian pasta has a solid consumer base in the USA, but the price increase could push them to choose less expensive alternatives.
Wine: Export of Italian wines in the USA is among the most profitable, with prestige brands that could undergo a dramatic drop in sales due to the competition of local producers or countries with lower duties.
DOP cheeses and cured meats: products symbol of Italian excellence such as Parmigiano Reggiano, pecorino and Parma ham risk a strong slowdown in exports.
Extra virgin olive oil: The US market absorbs a consistent slice of domestic production, but the increase in costs risks promoting producers of other non -EU countries and alternative products such as seed oils that have nothing to do with the quality of Italian extra virgin.
“In front of this challenge – says the President of CNA Agro -Food Francesca Pedrini – It is essential to diversify the outlet markets, strengthening presence in European countries and enhancing internal demand. After the financial crisis of 2008-2012, the difficulties generated by the pandemic, the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and the persistence of critical conditions for the agri-food sector with agriculture to historical minimums, We loudly ask for targeted and urgent support policies both at the level of the European Union and of National Government To mitigate the effects of American duties. In addition, consumer education to recognize the value of Italian artisan products remains an important lever to keep the demand high, even in the face of higher costs “.