5 Jun 2025
,Paraguay
In recent months, the global trade environment has been shaken by a series of tariff policies that are significantly impacting market dynamics. In particular, the United States has imposed new customs duties that are not only extending clearance times but also causing shipping costs to rise by up to 20%. This situation poses a considerable challenge for companies that rely on logistical efficiency to remain competitive in the market. Industry operators now face longer delivery times and higher operating costs, with repercussions across the entire production and logistics chain.
The wood-furniture industry, particularly significant in Northeast Italy, is among those most affected by the recent tariff policies. Companies in this sector are grappling with a complex and ever-evolving reality, influenced by often unpredictable political and commercial decisions. The wood-furniture sector relies on an international supply chain, and the new tariffs have created significant obstacles within this flow. The additional time and cost required for customs clearance and shipping are eroding profit margins and causing delays that can undermine customer trust.
These issues are particularly problematic in an industry where punctuality and reliability are essential. Companies not only have to contend with rising costs but also need to revise their procurement and sales strategies to mitigate the negative impact of the tariffs. This could include renegotiating contracts, optimizing shipping routes, or even seeking out new, less tariff-burdened markets.
The resilience of the sector will be crucial in facing these challenges, but the situation remains tense and uncertain. Wood-furniture companies in the Northeast must work closely with industry associations and government representatives to explore solutions and ensure ongoing support to overcome these obstacles.
The announcement by former US President Donald Trump regarding an increase in tariffs of up to 50% starting from June 1 has further worsened the situation, generating uncertainty and concern among Italian exporters. This drastic tariff hike is specifically aimed at heavily impacting Italian exports, particularly penalizing regions that rely most on the US market, such as Friuli and Veneto.
The United States represents the primary export market for furniture produced in Friuli and the third-largest market for Veneto. Exports to the US have seen a significant increase of 13.4% in 2024, data that underscores the importance of this market for the local economy. However, the tariff increase directly jeopardizes this growth, posing new challenges to Italian companies that must now contend with reduced price competitiveness compared to rivals not subject to the same tariffs.
The response of companies to these challenges could involve a strategic reorientation, including expansion into new markets less vulnerable to restrictive tariff policies. At the same time, it will be crucial for businesses to enhance the quality and uniqueness of their products to maintain appeal to US consumers despite higher prices.
In conclusion, the wood-furniture industry must prepare to face an uncertain future characterized by constantly changing trade policies. The ability of companies to adapt quickly to these changes and innovate in their operations will be critical to their long-term success in an increasingly complex and competitive global context.
