Import from Italy to the UK
Recent statistics show that the UK is currently Italy’s 6th largest trading partner, with exports to the country totalling $28 billion.
In 2024, the government released a joint statement on behalf of Italy and the UK, describing their trade relationship as ‘flourishing’. The statement also cited that the ties between their peoples lie at the heart of the friendship between the two countries.
There are lots of reasons to import from Italy, many of which relate to its high-quality products and reputation as a major supplier of automotive goods.
In 2024, the government released a joint statement on behalf of Italy and the UK, describing their trade relationship as ‘flourishing’. The statement also cited that the ties between their peoples lie at the heart of the friendship between the two countries.
There are lots of reasons to import from Italy, many of which relate to its high-quality products and reputation as a major supplier of automotive goods.
Why import from Italy to the UK?
Product quality
According to the General Confederation of Italian Industry (also known as ‘Confindustria’), the best products to import from Italy include wine, fruit, vegetables, cheese and meat.
The Italian agri-food industry is worth a staggering €52 billion (as of 2024) and plays a vital role in the country’s economy. The top food imports from Italy to the UK are olive oil, Italian cheese, pasta and wine.
Competitive prices
As an EU member, shipping from Italy to the UK can be cost-effective due to the lack of tariffs (provided those goods meet the rules of origin (RoO). Importers should also factor in VAT, which is 20% on goods over £135.
Automotive and engineering sector
Thanks to Italy's solid industrial base, the country’s automotive sector ranks 2ⁿᵈ in the EU by number of companies and 3ʳᵈ by number of automobile assembly, battery, and engine plants.
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What products are commonly imported from Italy?
According to UK government statistics, Italy was the UK’s 9th largest trading partner in 2024. The total trade in goods and services amounted to £51.3 billion, an increase of 3.4% or £1.7 billion in current prices from 2023!
Below, you can find the top five goods that make up the highest percentage of shipping from Italy to the UK:
Before an import from Italy can arrive in the UK, first, it must pass through Italian customs (managed by the Agenzia delle dogane e dei Monopoli) and then UK customs.
Below, you can find the top five goods that make up the highest percentage of shipping from Italy to the UK:
- General industrial machinery (£1.3 billion)
- Clothing (£1.2 billion)
- Medicinal & pharmaceutical (£1.1 billion)
- Cars (£1.1 billion)
- Beverages & tobacco (£1.1 billion)
Before an import from Italy can arrive in the UK, first, it must pass through Italian customs (managed by the Agenzia delle dogane e dei Monopoli) and then UK customs.
How to prepare for customs declarations
Shipping from Singapore can be cleared quickly by having the following documents to hand:
EORI number
All imports from Italy to the UK must first have an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number. It enables UK authorities to track items as they pass across borders.
Inspection (if necessary)
To import from Italy to the UK, you may need to acquire an import licence. Some commodities that require licensing include:
- High-risk foods
- Waste shipments
- Animals and animal products
- Tissues and cells for human use
- Weapons and products that might be used for torture or execution
Commodity code
The commodity code determines customs charges, VAT, and import limitations. It consists of 10 digits that are unique to each shipment and aids customs in classifying items.
Marking and labelling
Footwear, precious metals, children's items, and food and drink must comply with product labelling requirements in order to be sold in the UK.
Pay duty & VAT
Duty, VAT and import charges from Italy to the UK vary based on the product type and stated value. These costs must be paid before the products are passed through customs.
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How do I ship goods from Italy to the UK?
Shipping from Italy to the UK can be accomplished via sea and air freight.
Sea freight
European sea freight from Italy to the UK can take, at minimum, 4 days.
However, depending on the route taken, it can take up to 10 days. Sea freight costs much less than air travel, so it can be an excellent option for importers working on a tight budget.
However, depending on the route taken, it can take up to 10 days. Sea freight costs much less than air travel, so it can be an excellent option for importers working on a tight budget.
Air freight
Air freight imports from Italy to the UK are much quicker and can take as little as 1–2 days. These shipments do come at a higher cost. Air freight is most suited to high-value or time-sensitive shipments.
Does the UK have a free trade agreement with Italy?
No, the UK does not have a free trade agreement with Italy. It does, however, have an export and investment partnership, which was signed in February 2023.
While not a full FTA, the partnership aims to strengthen exports in high-performing and growth sectors while promoting low-carbon industries.
While not a full FTA, the partnership aims to strengthen exports in high-performing and growth sectors while promoting low-carbon industries.
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