Italian government officials indicated that the planned levy will likely target online platforms such as Temu and Shein, according to Reuters.
The aim is to address what authorities identify as unfair competition within the Italian market, which considers fashion a significant industry, according to the officials.
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Italy Industry Minister Adolfo Urso was cited by the news agency as saying: “We will present a measure to tackle the ultra-fast fashion phenomenon: an invasion of low-cost foreign products that damage our producers and put consumers at risk.”
The Italian government’s decision comes amid growing concerns across Europe that China is redirecting cheaper goods into EU markets.
This shift is seen as part of China’s strategy to offset losses from reduced US trade, following tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump.
Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti commented on the situation, saying, “We are victims of the rogues of globalisation,” in reference to China’s trade practices.
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By GlobalDataAs indicated by sources, the Italian government intends to counteract the influx of low-cost imports by implementing a strategy based on an EU directive concerning Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).
This approach will compel manufacturers to cover the costs associated with collecting, sorting, and recycling their products once they become waste.
In addition to the levy on foreign imports, Urso highlighted efforts to address abuses in Italy’s supply chain following recent controversies involving notable brands. The measures aim to bolster worker rights within the industry.
Since last year, five other luxury brands have been placed under judicial administration for similar reasons.
These calls have primarily been directed at ultra-fast fashion brands like Shein.
In response to these developments, China demanded fair treatment, particularly after the EU proposed a €2 fee on all direct-to-consumer parcels.
The introduction of Italy’s levy also coincides with the recent launch of Amazon Haul in Italy, which employs a similar business model to Shein and Temu by shipping products directly from Chinese manufacturers to Italian consumers.
Shein and Temu did not return request for comment when approached by Just Style.
