Italy says US has sharply cut proposed pasta tariffs after a review

Core Viewpoint - The United States has significantly reduced proposed tariffs on several Italian pasta makers after reassessing their U.S. activities, which is a positive development for the affected companies [1][2]. Group 1: Tariff Changes - The U.S. Department of Commerce has lowered the tariff for La Molisana to 2.26% and for Garofalo to 13.98%, while the remaining 11 producers face a tariff of 9.09% [2]. - Initially, 13 Italian pasta companies were set to face an additional 92% duty on top of the regular 15% rate starting January 2026 [1]. Group 2: Economic Impact - Italy's total pasta exports were valued at over 4 billion euros (approximately $4.7 billion) in 2024, with the U.S. market representing nearly $800 million for Italian firms [4]. - The reassessment of duties is seen as recognition of the companies' willingness to cooperate with U.S. authorities [2]. Group 3: Political Context - The tariff situation has been a source of embarrassment for Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who had anticipated that her relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump would protect Italian companies from additional tariffs [3].