The EU has reaffirmed its regulations for tech companies despite threats from the US. The US government criticizes the rules as discriminatory and names German firms like DHL and Siemens as potential retaliation targets. EU spokespeople stress fair application to all companies.
The European Union remains undeterred by recent US threats and is holding firm on its strict rules for the digital sector. European Commission spokesman Thomas Regnier stated that the regulations apply equally and fairly to all companies operating in the EU and will be enforced without discrimination.
The US government under President Donald Trump has labeled the European regulations 'discriminatory and harassing.' The Office of the US Trade Representative warned of countermeasures such as fees or restrictions on foreign service providers if necessary. Affected could be companies like the German logistics firm DHL, the industrial conglomerate Siemens, and the Swedish streaming service Spotify. The US also indicates it will act similarly against countries pursuing a comparable strategy.
The tensions stem from ongoing US criticism of EU laws on digital services and the high fines imposed on American firms. Recently, the EU levied a 120 million euro penalty on the platform X for insufficient transparency in advertising and user accounts. X owner Elon Musk subsequently called for the abolition of the EU, while Trump described the fine as 'outrageous' and cautioned the EU to be very careful.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) rejected the US criticism. He argued that European companies must comply with US laws in America, and likewise, US firms must respect EU rules. In previous years, the EU has imposed billions in fines on US tech giants. The US is calling for a relaxation of the guidelines and has dangled lower tariffs on European steel and aluminum.
