President Donald Trump has announced plans to launch a formal trade investigation into the European Union, signaling potential new tariffs in retaliation for recent penalties imposed on major American technology corporations. This development follows a decision by the European Commission to fine Google €890 million for allegedly suppressing competition.
Using his Truth Social platform, Trump declared that the European Union would face significant consequences for its treatment of domestic giants like Google, Apple, Meta, and Amazon. He asserted that the United States would not serve as a financial resource for Europe and demanded that previous fines be rescinded. To address these concerns, he plans to invoke Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which authorizes the U.S. Trade Representative to probe unfair trade practices.
The announcement arrives just one day after the president proposed tariffs ranging from 10% to 12.5% on various global trading partners, including the EU, the United Kingdom, and China. While Google spokesperson José Castañeda noted that the company has focused on regulatory compliance while voicing concerns over recent EC decisions, the administration remains firm in its stance. Trump alleged that cumulative fines for Apple, Meta, and Amazon have already reached billions of dollars, a sentiment he previously discussed with Apple CEO Tim Cook regarding the company’s own legal battles in Europe.
