EU Plans Tariffs on US Digital Services Amid Trade Tensions

In response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recently announced tariffs, the European Union is preparing significant countermeasures, including potential tariffs on digital services provided by major tech companies such as Google, Amazon, and Apple. French government spokesperson Sophie Primas emphasized that the EU is 'ready for a trade war' and plans to include services in its retaliatory measures, indicating a broadening of the trade conflict to encompass the digital sector. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the American tariffs as a severe threat to the global economy and stated that all options are on the table for the EU's response. The EU's initial package of tariffs on U.S. goods, worth up to €26 billion, is set to take effect in mid-April, while broader measures affecting additional products and services are expected by the end of the month. France's push for tariffs targeting U.S. tech firms reflects growing concerns over the impact of U.S. policies on European industries, particularly in sectors such as wine and spirits. The situation marks a significant escalation in transatlantic trade tensions as the EU seeks to protect its economic interests against perceived aggressive U.S. trade practices.