Italian wine producers are bracing for a significant financial blow after the U.S. imposed a 20% tariff on EU goods, threatening a sector deeply reliant on American consumers. President Donald Trump\'s new policy, framed as a "reciprocal" measure, could slash Italian wine revenues by €323 million ($368 million) annually, according to industry estimates.
A Fragile Market Balance
Lamberto Frescobaldi, chairman of the Italian winegrowers\' association (UIV), warned that the tariffs risk destabilizing decades of market growth. "The U.S. represents 30% of our export value. A sudden price hike could push buyers toward cheaper alternatives from other regions," he said.
Family Businesses at Risk
Ca\' Montebello, a family-run winery in northern Italy exporting over 90% of its production to the U.S., faces existential challenges. Third-generation owner Alberto Scarani noted the policy disproportionately impacts affordable wines: "Price-sensitive consumers won\'t pay extra for entry-level bottles. We need EU intervention to protect this vital trade relationship."
