Italy hopes for diplomacy as US threatens wine tariffs
- The US president is considering a significant potential tariff on European wine, which alarms Italian winemakers, impacting their export dynamics.
- Italy's agriculture minister, Francesco Lollobrigida, expressed a hopeful sentiment for negotiation and resolution despite the tariff threats.
- The ongoing trade tensions indicate a broader conflict in international trade policies that could affect the wine industry on both sides of the Atlantic.
In Italy, concerns are rising regarding potential tariffs proposed by the United States on European wine, with US President Donald Trump suggesting a 200% tariff. This proposal, as indicated by Francesco Lollobrigida, Italy's agriculture minister, raises fears for the Italian wine industry's export capabilities. Lollobrigida emphasized that, despite the concerns, he remains optimistic about a diplomatic resolution to the situation. This discussion comes at a crucial time with a significant decision on tariffs expected from the White House on April 2, 2025. The Italian trade group, Federvini, has reported a slowdown in wine and spirits exports to the US due to the tariffs uncertainty, which has created a challenging environment for local winemakers. A significant portion of Italy's wine exports—approximately 25%—are directed towards the American market, which greatly impacts the industry. In fact, as of 2024, Italy's wine exports saw a healthy growth of 5% year-on-year, totaling over €8 billion. The ongoing turmoil in the trade landscape can be traced back to a series of retaliatory measures from the US and European Union. Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminum that took effect earlier in 2025 prompted the EU to respond with plans for tariffs on American whiskey and other products. The escalating tensions are part of a wider conflict over trade policies, underscoring the fragile interconnectedness of global markets. In response to emerging challenges within the wine sector, the European Commission is considering a comprehensive support package to assist the industry, aiming to be implemented by the end of 2025 or early 2026. This initiative seeks to address declining alcohol consumption and manage overproduction specifically in Southern Europe, which has seen particularly difficult conditions for red wine growers. As discussions progress and the looming decision on tariffs approaches, the Italian wine industry and its stakeholders await clarity on potential impacts and strive for a favorable resolution through diplomatic negotiations.