Italian Design Exports Unaffected by Latest U.S. Tariff Hikes

On September 29, 2025, the President of the United States issued a Presidential Proclamation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, introducing new tariffs on timber, lumber, and related products. The measures affect several categories, including upholstered wooden furniture, kitchen cabinets, and vanities.

Starting October 14, 2025, imports of certain upholstered wooden products, as well as kitchen cabinets, vanities, and related parts, will be subject to a 25% tariff. These rates will further increase on January 1, 2026, rising to 30% for upholstered wooden products and 50% for kitchen cabinets and vanities.

However, the Proclamation grants preferential treatment to imports from the European Union (including Italy). For these products, the combined tariff rate (Section 232 tariff plus the existing MFN duty) will be capped at 15%, significantly lower than the rates applied to imports from other countries.

As a result, EU-originating goods — including Made in Italy products — will not be impacted by the newly announced tariff increases.

The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce (IACC) highlights the importance of this outcome for companies in the design, furniture, and interiors sectors, and reaffirms its commitment to closely monitoring tariff, trade, and regulatory developments that may affect Italian exports. The Chamber will continue to keep its members fully informed and up to date on any future changes.