U.S. Proposes 107% Tariff on Italian Pasta Imports Amid Dumping Allegations

The U.S. Commerce Department has proposed a significant increase in tariffs on Italian pasta imports, citing allegations that Italian producers sold pasta in the U.S. at unfairly low prices, a practice known as dumping. The proposed measure includes an additional 91.74% duty on 13 Italian pasta companies, including major exporters La Molisana and Garofalo, on top of an existing 15% tariff on European Union goods, bringing the total to nearly 107%.

The investigation was initiated following complaints from U.S. pasta manufacturers, including Ronzoni and Wacky Mac, who alleged that Italian pasta was being sold below market value, undercutting domestic products. The Commerce Department's review focused on La Molisana and Garofalo, determining that both companies failed to provide adequate documentation, leading to the proposed tariffs being extended to 11 other Italian producers.

Italian officials and industry leaders have expressed strong opposition to the proposed tariffs. EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic criticized the decision, stating it lacked a full and fair factual basis, and confirmed he discussed the issue with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida indicated that the Italian government is working with the European Commission and engaging in diplomatic efforts to oppose the sanctions.

The proposed tariffs have raised concerns among U.S. importers and retailers. Sal Auriemma, owner of Claudio Specialty Food in Philadelphia, noted that pasta is a basic food item and questioned the focus on such a small sector. Similarly, Robert Tramonte of The Italian Store in Arlington, Virginia, expressed concerns about rising consumer prices and the potential loss of authentic Italian products from store shelves.

The U.S. Commerce Department's final decision on the proposed tariffs is expected by January 2, 2026. If implemented, the tariffs could significantly impact Italian pasta exports to the U.S., which accounted for approximately 15% of Italy's €4 billion in pasta exports in 2024.