Italy will add a fresh tax on imports from China to protect its own fashion sector.
The government said it plans to impose an extra levy on select Chinese goods, mainly textiles and apparel, that compete with Italian designers. The move follows growing worries that cheaper Chinese products are undercutting local manufacturers and reducing sales for Italy’s iconic fashion houses.
“We want to defend the long‑standing reputation of Italian style and the jobs tied to it,” said a senior trade official. The new fee will target items that are “too cheap to compete fairly,” the spokesperson added.
The Italian Ministry of Economy said the measure is not a wholesale ban but a targeted tariff. It will apply to certain categories of imported clothing and will be reviewed every six months.
China’s trade chief has warned that Italy’s step could spark a backlash. The Chinese government has said it will monitor the situation closely and is ready to respond as needed.
Italy’s fashion industry accounts for a huge part of the country’s exports and employment. A recent report highlighted that Italy was the world’s leading exporter of luxury fashion in 2023. Many designers and suppliers fear that cheaper Chinese imports could erode that lead.
The new levy is expected to hit items such as knitted garments, synthetic fabrics, and ready‑to‑wear clothing. The Italian government said it is working with provincial associations to help local factories keep up with demand.
Global markets have watched Italy’s decision with interest. Analysts say the new tax could set a precedent for other European countries that aim to protect local industries. In the next few weeks, the Italian Parliament will debate the exact rates and implementation dates. The move comes at a time of heightened tension between the two nations over trade, technology and intellectual‑property issues.
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