Despite tariffs, the United States remains the primary driver of Italian exports outside Europe. According to Istat, exports to non-EU countries increased by 16.1% year on year in August, with the majority of growth concentrated in Switzerland (+57.0%) and the United States (+31.1%). Non-EU exports increased 5.8% in the first eight months of 2026, resulting in a €33.2 billion trade surplus with these nations. According to Cerved, in the first four months of 2026, the value of Italian exports to the United States equaled that of exports to Germany, which has traditionally been the main market for Made in Italy items. Chemicals and pharmaceuticals are the key driving force, accounting for approximately 30% of Italian exports to the United States. The United States guaranties a trade surplus equivalent to three-quarters of Italy's total trade surplus. However, the situation is not universally positive: sectors that are Made in Italy and have a higher concentration of micro and small businesses are being negatively impacted by US tariffs. Istat’s next update is expected on 29 October.