At the Fancy Food Show, Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida takes stock of the prospects for Italian exports to the United States. From product quality to strategies against imitations, passing through the risks related to duties.
Can the agribusiness sector strengthen Italy-US relations?
Yes, it is certainly a strategic channel. And we talked about that with Secretary of State Brooke Rollins. The relations between Italy and the United States are strong, and they are based not only on lively trade, but they have shared values at their base. Those of democratic rules, of freedom. Agribusiness exports touched 70 billion euros in 2024, 8 billion of which went to the United States alone. Strengthening agribusiness trade relations is our goal to strengthen our relations and consequently also those with the EU.
How did the meeting with U.S. Secretary Brooke Rollins go?
The meeting was very positive and took place in an atmosphere of full cooperation and trust. We addressed the main issues related to agriculture and exports, sharing the importance of strengthening trade cooperation. For now, tariffs are the subject of interlocution between the EU and the U.S. administration. As Italy we are working to ensure that a trade war is averted because it would benefit no one. Made in Italy for us Italians means “made in Italy,” for others it means beauty and goodness, and our partners know that.
What is the impact of US tariffs on Italian agribusiness?
The imposition of additional duties is not something that would leave us indifferent, but the uniqueness of our products could lead to mitigating, if not nullifying their impact. The demand for Made in Italy is high and has benefits for both. To give an example, 62 percent of the value of Parmigiano sold in the United States remains in the American supply chain, a percentage that rises to 78 percent for balsamic vinegar. We work so that value is not destroyed, either for Italy or for the United States.
How much events like Fancy Food matter for Made in Italy.
Every opportunity is useful to show the uniqueness and quality of our products, consolidate traditional markets and open new ones. The U.S. market is among the most dynamic, and the Fancy Food Show, where the Italian delegation is particularly numerous, is one of the most important agrifood trade fair events in the world. We hope that interest will remain high in this edition as well.
Strategies to increase the spread of Italian food in the US?
Sistema Italia focuses on the quality of food, its traceability and the fight against imitations. Recognizing Made in Italy with certainty is essential, which is why we introduced the tricolor band on wine bottles. For some months now, the tricolor has been an element of immediate recognition. It will be an extra guarantee for those who choose to buy Italian. We stand alongside producers in promoting our excellence. Food is culture, and it is the best ambassador of Made in Italy.
Which product has the greatest growth potential?
The product with the greatest growth potential is Made in Italy. For us, the United States represents the second largest market for our excellence. Wine, pasta, oil and cheese are particularly appreciated because their consumption is associated not only with taste, but also with well-being and a healthy lifestyle. Italy and the United States are friendly countries, and the Fancy Food Show is an occasion to remember this.
The article Lollobrigida: “Agribusiness strategic lever to strengthen Italy-US relations” comes from TheNewyorker.
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