EU Divided Over Response to US Tariffs, France Proposes Tech Retaliation

Since returning to office in January 2025, President Donald Trump has expanded his tariff policies, imposing a 20% tariff on goods from the European Union, which has prompted a divided response among EU member states. While France advocates for retaliatory measures targeting American digital services, Ireland is wary of risks to its tech sector, which relies heavily on US investment. The EU seeks a unified stance to negotiate with the US, but is also preparing countermeasures if talks fail, particularly considering the US tariffs’ impact on its exports. Concerns are rising about the potential escalation of a global trade conflict, especially as the EU contemplates additional tariffs on American tech giants like Google, Meta, and Apple. Analysts warn that discounted imports from Asia due to US tariffs could flood European markets, prompting further protective measures from Brussels. The situation underscores the fragility of global trade relationships amidst Trump's aggressive tariff strategies.