Tighter U.S. import restrictions under Section 301 of the Trade Act are placing mounting pressure on European furniture exporters, particularly firms from Italy, Germany, and France. Prominent brands such as De Sede, Poliform, and Cassina are facing challenges in maintaining competitiveness amid increasing customs scrutiny and cost burdens.
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The U.S., a key export market valued at over $2 billion for Italian furniture alone in 2023, has introduced new trade barriers aimed at protecting domestic manufacturers. These changes, set against a backdrop of geopolitical tension and ongoing disputes at the World Trade Organisation, are proving especially difficult for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to navigate.
Evolving U.S. consumer expectations for fast delivery further complicate matters, contrasting with Europe's traditional emphasis on craftsmanship and longer production cycles. In response, some European firms are localising manufacturing in the U.S. or redirecting focus to Asian, GCC, and Latin American markets.
Trade groups like Confindustria and the European Furniture Industries Confederation are urging renewed transatlantic dialogue to protect the cultural and economic significance of European design. As trade dynamics shift, the sector faces a critical test of resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing global marketplace.
Source: www.ipsnews.net