U.S. Import Duty Changes Affecting Italian Goods

Recent U.S. import duty changes affecting Italian goods include a 15% Trump tariff on Italian imports, effective August 2025. Additionally, the suspension of the de minimis exemption (effective August 2025) means all shipments are subject to applicable duties, regardless of value

Trump tariff: As part of a broader trade agreement between the U.S. and the European Union, a 15% tariff was agreed upon in late July 2025 and took effect for most European goods in August 2025.

• This tariff level was a compromise that averted a higher 30% rate that had been previously threatened.
• The 15% rate applies to many Italian exports, particularly agri-food products like wine, olive oil, and pasta.

De minimis suspension: On July 30, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order suspending the de minimis exemption for low-value imports.

• This change became effective on August 29, 2025.
• Previously, shipments valued at $800 or less were exempt from duties. With the suspension, all international shipments are now subject to applicable duties and taxes, regardless of value.

Clarifications and additional context

• The 15% tariff is not exclusively "on Italian imports": It is part of a larger, reciprocal tariff agreement affecting many goods imported from the entire European Union. Italy's exports are affected as part of this larger deal.
• Reciprocal Tariffs: As part of the new trade policies, the U.S. imposed reciprocal tariffs on numerous countries and regions, with rates varying by country and product category.