Trump Backs Down on Pasta: US Italian Pasta Tariffs 2026 Slashed

A massive 92% tariff threat just evaporated. The Trump administration is pulling back on Italian pasta taxes, signaling a more flexible approach to trade with key allies.

US Italian Pasta Tariffs 2026: Why the Rates Dropped

On Thursday, the Italian Foreign Ministry announced that the proposed tariff rates for 13 producers have been drastically cut. This reversal follows allegations that Italian firms were 'dumping' pasta—selling it at unfairly low prices—to undercut American competitors. While the US Commerce Department initially threatened rates as high as 91.74%, some brands like La Molisana will now face a mere 2.26% tariff.

Balancing Diplomacy and Consumer Costs

The decision provides significant relief for Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who maintains a close rapport with Donald Trump. A high tariff would have been a political headache for her administration. Economically, the move prevents a sharp spike in grocery prices for American families. Had the original plan proceeded, the combined taxes on some pasta imports would have exceeded 100% of the product's value.

This softening is part of a broader trend. Recently, the administration postponed furniture tariffs for 12 months and exempted key food items like coffee and beef from its aggressive tariff program.