Trump Threatens Tariffs Over EU’s Digital Rules

Trump says countries with “discriminatory” online regulations risk tariffs and tech restrictions.

U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to impose new tariffs and restrict technology exports on countries that adopt digital rules he considers discriminatory toward American companies.

Writing on Truth Social, Trump said that nations introducing digital taxes or regulations targeting U.S. firms would face “substantial additional tariffs” on exports to the United States, alongside curbs on access to American-made technology and microchips.

Reported by POLITICO, the warning comes amid mounting U.S. criticism of the European Union’s Digital Services Act (DSA), which sets strict requirements for large online platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and X.

Washington and some of its tech industry allies have branded the law “Orwellian,” accusing Brussels of censorship and imposing costly burdens on American businesses. Reports this week also suggested the U.S. has weighed possible sanctions against EU officials, including visa restrictions, over the legislation, though the State Department declined to confirm the claims.

The DSA, which applies to platforms with more than 45 million EU users, requires companies to assess and mitigate risks such as disinformation and harm to minors. While EU policymakers argue the law strengthens accountability and consumer protection, the Trump administration has framed it as part of a wider pattern of digital protectionism.

A State Department spokesperson said officials were “monitoring increasing censorship in Europe with great concern,” but offered no further details.

Government Published: 26 August