US Slashes Tariffs on Italian Pasta, Easing Trade Tensions Amid Ongoing Talks
January 2, 2026
Italian farm groups Coldiretti and Filiera Italia welcomed the possible tariff changes, warning that high tariffs would raise costs for American consumers and threaten Made in Italy authenticity.
Italian pasta exports in 2024 were valued at just over €4 billion, underscoring the significance of the sector in the bilateral trade discussion.
The tariffs are part of ongoing trade talks, reflecting a pattern of announcing duties and then delaying or adjusting them.
The final determination is due by March 12, with potential extensions up to 60 days, and changes will apply only after the full results are analyzed.
The United States cut tariffs on 13 Italian pasta brands, reducing duties from 92% to a range of 2% to 14% after a preliminary review found the companies were not trying to undercut U.S. pasta makers.
Officials cautioned that the information is subject to further updates as reviews continue.
Proponents argue that the furniture tariffs are meant to bolster American industry and national security.
Commerce Department officials said they would keep engaging with interested parties and consider all information before issuing the final tariff determination.
Newly postponed tariffs include a 30% duty on upholstered furniture and a 50% duty on kitchen cabinets and vanities, delayed for another year.
The European Commission signaled it would intervene to defend EU interests if needed.
A study from Aston University suggested there was no dumping by the Italian producers and posited the U.S. stance could be political theater or tied to broader Trump-era policy.
Keep in mind that no increase in duties has taken effect yet, as the review is still underway.
Summary based on 30 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Jan 2, 2026
Italian pasta makers win reprieve from Trump tariffs
HuffPost • Jan 1, 2026
Proposed Tariffs On Italian Pasta Won’t Happen After All
The Business Times • Jan 1, 2026
Italy says US has sharply cut proposed pasta duties after a review