EU fine on Google sparks Trump threat of trade investigation

US President Donald Trump has criticised the European Union after regulators imposed an €890 million fine on Google, warning that the bloc would face consequences over what he described as unfair treatment of American companies.

Speaking on Friday, Trump argued that the penalty was both unlawful and discriminatory. He insisted that the United States would not continue to serve as Europe’s “piggy bank” and signalled plans to respond through trade measures.

The European Commission announced the fine on Thursday, saying Google had breached the bloc’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). According to the Commission, the tech giant gave preferential treatment to its own services in Google Search while restricting access to competing, and often cheaper, alternatives available through the Google Play Store.

Reacting to the decision, Trump said the action amounted to an attack on American businesses and taxpayers. In a post on his Truth Social platform, he announced plans to launch a Section 301 investigation into what he called the EU’s practice of “looting” US companies.

Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 allows the US government to investigate and respond to foreign trade practices considered unfair. Following a US Supreme Court ruling that struck down an earlier package of broad tariffs, the Trump administration has increasingly relied on this legal framework to shape its trade policy.

Trump also warned that the European Union would face significant consequences, describing its actions as “illegal” and “highly unethical.” He said he expected the penalties to be overturned and indicated that substantial tariffs could be introduced against the bloc.

The Digital Markets Act places stricter obligations on major technology firms that dominate online platforms. The rules are intended to prevent these companies from giving unfair preference to their own products and services while ensuring rival businesses have equal access to consumers across the EU.

Google has been given 60 days to comply with the Commission’s requirements. If it fails to make the necessary changes, the company could face additional periodic penalties of up to 5% of its global turnover.

Source: POLSKIE RADIO