Italy's Agricultural Minister Discusses Global Trade Dynamics at Vinitaly
Giorgia Meloni's administration emphasizes the importance of the American market while exploring new opportunities for Italian wine exports.
At the Vinitaly trade fair, Italian Agricultural Minister Francesco Lollobrigida expressed optimism regarding the prospects of Italian wine exports amidst evolving trade dynamics.
Lollobrigida noted that while discussions about potential tariffs imposed by the United States under former President Donald Trump continue, he observed a positive outlook among Italian wine producers.
He highlighted that this year marked a historic high in Italian wine exports, reaffirming the nation's commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the U.S. market.
Lollobrigida acknowledged that U.S. tariffs have yet to substantially affect pricing for Italian wines.
He mentioned that the impact of tariffs on retail prices is currently minimal, suggesting that the situation will remain stable in the near future.
The Minister emphasized that the Italian government and its entrepreneurs do not desire a trade war with the United States, stating that cooperative negotiations between the European Union and the U.S. are preferable to combatting through reciprocal tariffs.
With a notable growth of €7 billion in agro-industrial exports since the formation of the Meloni government, Lollobrigida emphasized the importance of diversifying markets.
He noted that Italy has resumed its position as the leading agricultural economy in Europe, overtaking France and Germany, according to official statistics.
On the topic of regulating large tech companies from the U.S., Lollobrigida cautioned against aggressive tactics, advocating for diplomatic dialogue and pragmatic choices.
He proposed the need for flexible agricultural policies and a critical review of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) regulations to stimulate production and support farmers.
The Minister indicated that two European commissioners participated in Vinitaly for the first time, illustrating a shift in the EU's engagement with the Italian wine sector.
He highlighted an initiative to promote wine as a source of well-being rather than stigmatization, reflecting a cultural perspective on alcohol consumption in Italy.
Addressing the demographic benefits of wine consumption, he humorously pointed out the correlation between Italian wine consumers and increased longevity compared to their American counterparts, suggesting this could influence American perspectives on Italian lifestyle choices.
Furthermore, Lollobrigida denied suggestions that the Meloni government is at an impasse between supporting the EU or aligning with the United States, insisting that Italy remains committed to reinforcing the EU’s influence while maintaining strong transatlantic relations.
He stressed that Italy's approach prioritizes European cooperation, rooted in historical treaties and interests.
In response to local political dynamics, Lollobrigida dismissed rumors regarding the potential return of Matteo Salvini to the Interior Ministry, asserting that such discussions are politically motivated and not grounded in recent developments.
He conveyed optimism about traditional negotiation practices within the center-right coalition regarding regional candidate selections, specifically mentioning adaptations to potential shifts in political appointments within the government framework.
Lollobrigida noted that while discussions about potential tariffs imposed by the United States under former President Donald Trump continue, he observed a positive outlook among Italian wine producers.
He highlighted that this year marked a historic high in Italian wine exports, reaffirming the nation's commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the U.S. market.
Lollobrigida acknowledged that U.S. tariffs have yet to substantially affect pricing for Italian wines.
He mentioned that the impact of tariffs on retail prices is currently minimal, suggesting that the situation will remain stable in the near future.
The Minister emphasized that the Italian government and its entrepreneurs do not desire a trade war with the United States, stating that cooperative negotiations between the European Union and the U.S. are preferable to combatting through reciprocal tariffs.
With a notable growth of €7 billion in agro-industrial exports since the formation of the Meloni government, Lollobrigida emphasized the importance of diversifying markets.
He noted that Italy has resumed its position as the leading agricultural economy in Europe, overtaking France and Germany, according to official statistics.
On the topic of regulating large tech companies from the U.S., Lollobrigida cautioned against aggressive tactics, advocating for diplomatic dialogue and pragmatic choices.
He proposed the need for flexible agricultural policies and a critical review of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) regulations to stimulate production and support farmers.
The Minister indicated that two European commissioners participated in Vinitaly for the first time, illustrating a shift in the EU's engagement with the Italian wine sector.
He highlighted an initiative to promote wine as a source of well-being rather than stigmatization, reflecting a cultural perspective on alcohol consumption in Italy.
Addressing the demographic benefits of wine consumption, he humorously pointed out the correlation between Italian wine consumers and increased longevity compared to their American counterparts, suggesting this could influence American perspectives on Italian lifestyle choices.
Furthermore, Lollobrigida denied suggestions that the Meloni government is at an impasse between supporting the EU or aligning with the United States, insisting that Italy remains committed to reinforcing the EU’s influence while maintaining strong transatlantic relations.
He stressed that Italy's approach prioritizes European cooperation, rooted in historical treaties and interests.
In response to local political dynamics, Lollobrigida dismissed rumors regarding the potential return of Matteo Salvini to the Interior Ministry, asserting that such discussions are politically motivated and not grounded in recent developments.
He conveyed optimism about traditional negotiation practices within the center-right coalition regarding regional candidate selections, specifically mentioning adaptations to potential shifts in political appointments within the government framework.
Translation:
Translated by AI
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