Finance
Italy demands to exempt fertilizers from tariffs, EU carbon border levy
Published by Global Banking and Finance Review
Posted on January 7, 2026
BRUSSELS, Jan 7 (Reuters) - Italian Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida asked the European Commission on Wednesday to exempt fertilizers from import levies in a bid to help farmers compete with farm produce from South American bloc Mercosur.
"The alarming market situation suggests a suspensive clause on the CBAM (carbon border levy) should be activated as soon as possible," he said in a letter to European Commissioner for Agriculture Christophe Hansen, ahead of a meeting of EU agriculture ministers to discuss a proposed free trade agreement with Mercosur.
"In the immediate future, however, I would consider it appropriate to adopt a parallel measure to the benefit of our farmers through the elimination of duties on fertilizers imported from third countries," Lollobrigida said.
He added he hoped the Wednesday meeting could break the deadlock on Mercosur deal.
(Reporting by Inti Landauro and Philip Blenkinsop)
Frequently Asked Questions about Italy demands to exempt fertilizers from tariffs, EU carbon border levy
1What is a carbon border levy?
A carbon border levy is a tax imposed on imported goods based on their carbon emissions during production. It aims to level the playing field for domestic producers who adhere to stricter environmental regulations.
2What are fertilizers?
Fertilizers are substances added to soil or plants to supply essential nutrients that promote growth. They can be organic or synthetic and are crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity.
