Bangladesh, Oct. 29 -- The European Unions decision to renew and expand its sanctions against Russia has sparked an unexpected controversy – this time, over toilets and sanitary ware. What may appear to be a trivial restriction has in fact triggered significant economic consequences for Italian manufacturers, who now face tens of millions of Euros in lost revenue.

The latest round of EU sanctions – the blocs 19th package since the start of the Ukraine conflict in 2022 – includes a renewed ban on exporting toilets, bidets, sinks, and other bathroom fixtures to Russia. While some commentators initially dismissed the measure as symbolic, business leaders in Italy say the impact is anything but minor.

Vittorio Torrembini, ...