Trump warns of tariffs over foreign regulations on U.S. tech firms

By Im Yoon-seo Posted : February 22, 2025, 14:30 Updated : February 22, 2025, 22:55
 
U.S. President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 21, 2025. Reuters-Yonhap


SEOUL, February 22 (AJP) - U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday that he would take strong action, including tariffs, against foreign governments imposing unfair regulations on American tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Meta.

“What they’re doing to us in other countries is terrible with digital,” Trump said on Friday, directing his administration to address what he described as unfair trade practices harming U.S. companies. He accused foreign governments of restricting the success of American tech firms and diverting economic benefits that should remain in the United States.

A White House official said Trump has instructed his administration to consider potential responses, including tariffs, “to combat the digital service taxes (DSTs), fines, practices, and policies that foreign governments levy on American companies.”

Although he did not name specific countries, South Korea is seen as one of the countries that could come under scrutiny. The U.S. government has long raised concerns over Seoul’s network usage fees and restrictions on cross-border data transfers, viewing them as trade barriers for American firms.

If tariffs are imposed, South Korea’s IT sector and economy could take a hit, given its deep ties to global markets. 

Trump also took aim at digital service taxes imposed by France, Austria, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and the United Kingdom, calling for a review of whether to reinstate trade measures under U.S. law.

His move is expected to escalate tensions over digital trade regulations, particularly with the European Union and South Korea. However, it remains unclear whether the administration will follow through with tariffs or pursue legal action, as Trump may prioritize other policy issues, including geopolitical conflicts and domestic economic recovery.
 

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