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There are a lot of things to consider before you start exporting to Italy. It's essential to find out about local rules and regulations on tax and duty in your intended market.

VAT

VAT is known as IVA in Italy. The standard rate is 22%. There are reduced rates for some products, including basic foods, and some services are exempt.

Read more about .

Payment terms

Payment periods are longer than in the UK. Business-to-business payments can take several weeks but in some sectors can take months or longer, especially where creditors are public bodies. A prompt payment code of practice has recently been introduced.

Standards and regulations

Products and packaging should meet , but Italy is more strict in some areas. This includes packaging and labelling.

has responsibility for Italian national standards. is responsible for electrics, electronics and telecommunications regulations

Services regulations

Information on rules for is available on gov.uk

Trade barriers

to trading with Italy.

that are affecting your business so we can help fix them.

Business culture

Reforms in recent years have made it easier for companies to enforce contracts, register properties and resolve insolvency.

Intellectual property

Intellectual property (IP) rights are territorial. Rights granted in the UK do not provide protection elsewhere. You should consider getting IP protection abroad if you want to trade overseas or sell to overseas customers via the internet.

The Intellectual Property Office’s provides practical information to help you protect, manage and enforce your IP abroad. Further 91Ï㽶»ÆÉ«ÊÓƵ can be accessed through the service’s network of . Based in key UK export markets, they can provide guidance to businesses in Northern Ireland on local IP matters.

Using agents or distributors

Often the best way to start selling in Italy is to use an agent or distributor.

You should find a tax and legal adviser before entering into any contracts. Contact the for help.