New Tariffs Could Push Italian Pasta Out Of American Grocery Stores, And People Are Losing It

"The Wall Street Journal reports that import taxes and anti-dumping duties amounting to a 107% tariff on Italian pasta are set to decimate the pasta aisle as soon as January. The new tariff isn't part of Trump's sweeping Liberation Day tariff plan. Instead, it would be imposed by the U.S. Commerce Department over claims that Italian companies are flooding the US with low-priced pasta."

"These tariffs would affect 13 major Italian pasta exporters, including La Molisana, which denies that they are dumping pasta in America for cheaper prices than its domestic customers pay. Margherita Mastromauro, president of Unione Italiana Food, told EuroNews, "We need help, because a large part of our companies are involved. With a duty so high, it means that all these companies will not export until the new review will be done." "

"And Americans are also not so happy about the thought of losing access to bronze-cut Italian pasta, which holds sauce better due to its porous texture. By contrast, most American pastas are made in smoother Teflon molds, which makes your sauce slide right off the noodle like a non-stick pan. Some people are ready to start stockpiling the good stuff now."

President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs in April covering products from over 180 countries. Companies such as Best Buy and Adidas reported that higher tariffs force consumer price increases. A U.S. Commerce Department action would add 92% anti-dumping duties to an existing 15% EU tariff, creating a 107% rate on Italian pasta starting in January. Thirteen major Italian exporters would be affected; some, including La Molisana, deny dumping. Unione Italiana Food warned that many companies would halt exports while a review proceeds. Consumers value bronze-cut Italian pasta and some are considering stockpiling amid rising grocery prices.

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