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Trump Threatens New Tariffs Over Digital Taxes
U.S. President Donald Trump warned that nations imposing digital services taxes (DSTs) on American technology firms could face additional tariffs. He said such levies unfairly target companies like Google, Apple, Amazon, and Meta, and suggested that export restrictions on advanced U.S. technologies, including semiconductors, could also be considered.
Europe in the Spotlight
Several European countries have already enacted digital taxes or are enforcing the EU’s Digital Services Act, which the U.S. claims disproportionately affects American firms while giving competitors, particularly from China, an edge. Trump described these measures as discriminatory and threatened “substantial” tariffs in response.
Possible Sanctions on EU Officials
Alongside trade measures, the U.S. administration is weighing sanctions on EU officials overseeing the Digital Services Act. Options reportedly include visa bans and financial restrictions. Washington argues the EU’s approach overreaches by regulating online content and risks suppressing free expression under the guise of digital accountability.
