The recently signed tariff agreement between the United States and the European Union has sparked significant apprehension within the European plastics and rubber machinery sector. Amaplast, Italy’s national trade association representing over 170 manufacturers in this industry, has publicly expressed its deep concern regarding the implications of the deal.
Key provisions of the tariff agreement
The agreement introduces a flat 15% tariff on a broad spectrum of European products exported to the US. According to Amaplast, this measure poses a serious threat to the competitiveness of Italian and European manufacturers. The association highlights the lack of clarity about potential exemptions and the continued imposition of a 50% tariff on European steel as particularly troubling aspects of the deal.
Additional financial commitments
Beyond tariffs, the agreement obliges the European Union to substantial financial commitments, including:
- Purchasing $750 billion worth of energy from the United States over the next three years
- Investing $600 billion in the US within two years
- Unspecified military supplies
Amaplast argues that these obligations place a disproportionate burden on European industry, without providing adequate compensation or relief.
Industry reaction and concerns
Massimo Margaglione, President of Amaplast, described the agreement as "more like a surrender than a deal." He emphasized that, in a global context already challenged by a weakened dollar and sluggish demand, the imposition of a 15% blanket tariff is a devastating blow to companies that have long driven Italian exports through quality, technology, and reliability.
The sector represented by Amaplast exports approximately 10% of its total turnover to the United States. The new trade conditions could significantly hinder access to this crucial market, which is already affected by currency fluctuations and an uncertain global economic outlook.
Call for action
Amaplast is urging both the Italian Government and the European Commission to adopt a more assertive strategy in defending European industry. The association calls for urgent clarification regarding which goods will be exempt from the new tariffs and hopes that plastics and rubber processing machinery will be included among the exempted products. This is particularly important given the globally recognized value of Italian manufacturing and the sector’s strong export orientation—over 70% of all machinery produced is sold abroad.
Looking ahead
Margaglione concluded by stressing the need for robust industrial and monetary policies at the European level to address global challenges. He warned that without a shared strategic vision, not only is the competitiveness of European industry at risk, but also the social cohesion of Europe itself.
