Storyline: Renowned Italian economist Giovanni Tria on Wednesday warned that the U.S. tariff threat against the European Union (EU) will severely impact Italian exports, calling on countries around the globe to unite against rising American protectionism. U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to triple the basic tariff on EU imports to 30 percent if Brussels does not cut a deal by the end of the month. The Trump administration's plan has triggered concern among Italian business and industry associations, who say higher tariffs would deal a heavy blow to multiple Italian export sectors such as food, fashion, automobiles and pharmaceuticals. Tria, who once served as Italian Minister of Economy and Finance, said the added costs would ultimately fall on American consumers themselves rather than reviving U.S. manufacturing or boosting fiscal revenue as Trump claims. "Every country exports to and imports from others. Demanding a trade balance with each of its partners makes no economic sense. I don't think the U.S. can achieve its goals by applying pressure," said the economist. Amid the unpredictability of U.S. trade policy, there have been growing calls for a coordinated response by affected countries and regions. "Rules that have long been seen as effective are now deemed obsolete by the U.S.. And I think that the world - whether Europe, Asia, or elsewhere - must push back. We need to negotiate new rules within a multilateral framework, even if the U.S. seems unwilling to do so," said the economist. Shotlist: Rome, Italy - July 23, 2025: 1. National flag of Italy, flag of European Union (EU) 2. Various of pedestrians 3. SOUNDBITE (Italian) Giovanni Tria, former Italian Minister of Economy and Finance (ending with shot 4): "Every country exports to and imports from others. Demanding a trade balance with each of its partners makes no economic sense. I don't think the U.S. can achieve its goals by applying pressure." 4. Various of locals at market 5. Various of parents, kids at toyshop 6. SOUNDBITE (Italian) Giovanni Tria, former Italian Minister of Economy and Finance: "Rules that have long been seen as effective are now deemed obsolete by the U.S.. And I think that the world - whether Europe, Asia, or elsewhere - must push back. We need to negotiate new rules within a multilateral framework, even if the U.S. seems unwilling to do so." 7. Various of pedestrians. [Restrictions : No access Chinese mainland]