665.006/61: Telegram
The Ambassador in Italy (Long) to the Secretary of State
[Received February 19—2:35 p.m.]
80. My 76, February 18, 5 p.m.15 Text of decree establishing new import restrictions16 not yet available but Commercial Attaché has obtained copy of official instructions to customs authorities regarding its application.
With few unimportant exceptions all imports made subject to special permit but until March 31 customs authorities may permit their entry up to fixed percentage of the quantity imported from February 16 to March 31, 1934. For products of special interest to the United States these percentages are as follows: wheat zero; tobacco zero; lard and fatbacks 20%; raw cotton 25%; iron and steel scrap 30%; machinery including office machines 25%; radio sets 25%; motor vehicles 25%; common lumber 20%; paraffin 25%; rosin 35%; leather 25%.
If already paid for goods shipped prior to effective date of decree will be admitted. Where special quota allotments have already been granted to the United States they are not affected.
By severely restricting all imports Italy hopes to force concessions from other countries and will make its purchases even of raw materials from those countries which facilitate importation of Italian products. It expects soon to negotiate new commercial treaties not based on most favored nation treatment.
Inform Commerce.