U.S. Rush for Italian Food: Export +11%
In the first two months of 2025, Italian food exports to the U.S. rose by 11% in value compared to the same period in 2024, bucking a general 3% decline across all production sectors. The data, sourced from Coldiretti based on Istat figures, was presented at “TuttoFood”, a major international agri-food trade fair held in Milan. The rise was partly driven by U.S. importers stocking up on Italian goods early in the year, anticipating tariffs promised by Donald Trump. Initially set at 20%, then halved and suspended for 90 days, these tariffs created uncertainty. In February alone, Italian food exports to the U.S. rose by 14%, while overall exports across sectors fell by 10%.
Italy’s leading agri-food export to the U.S. remains wine, but trends are mixed: some wineries report volume drops, others increased sales. The sector is also addressing responsible consumption with the “Bevi consapevole” campaign, promoted by Coldiretti with Matteo Salvini, Fipe, and Filiera Italia. Sicily is prominently represented with 34 agri-food companies, celebrating its title as European Region of Gastronomy 2025. The region aims to promote its culinary heritage and generate new global business opportunities. Among export highlights, Grana Padano shipments to the U.S. grew by 11%, almost double the sector average. Tomato preserves face more uncertainty, due to cuts in California and doubts about China’s harvest. Mutti, the tomato product leader, now derives 59% of its sales from exports, with 80% of turnover within Europe. It closed 2024 with €703 million in revenue and has opened Mutti Poland to expand in Eastern Europe.
Coldiretti warns that tariffs could fuel the Italian sounding phenomenon. Its exhibit at TuttoFood displays authentic products alongside American imitations, which are gaining ground. The U.S. leads the world in counterfeit “Italian” food, especially cheese, with over 2.7 billion kg produced annually — surpassing domestic classics like Cheddar. Fake Italian cheeses such as Parmesan, Provolone, and Mozzarella — mostly made in Wisconsin, California, and New York — threaten the positioning of genuine Italian exports. The issue extends to meats and wines too. Coldiretti president Ettore Prandini stressed the importance of avoiding a trade clash. Years of brand-building in the U.S. are at stake. Secretary General Vincenzo Gesmundo added that dialogue must prevail, as tensions could hurt not only agri-food but the broader economy.
