US Urges Europe to Ease Digital Rules Amid Trade Talks

 The United States is pressing the European Union to reconsider its strict digital regulations on major technology companies, linking the issue directly to ongoing disputes over tariffs on European steel and aluminium exports.


Speaking during trade discussions in Brussels, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick emphasized that Europe’s stance on tech rules could influence Washington’s willingness to lower duties on metals and other goods.

Tariffs and Trade Framework Under Strain

  • In July, both sides agreed on a framework that set US tariffs on European products at 15%, a reduction from earlier threats.

  • The deal also included commitments for European investment and greater access for American agricultural exports.

  • However, disagreements remain. European officials expected relief for metals, but the US continues to impose duties of up to 50% and has expanded the list of affected products.

Europe Seeks Exemptions for Key Goods

EU negotiators are pushing for carve‑outs on items such as wine, cheese, and pasta — similar to exemptions recently granted for tropical fruit and coffee. However, US officials insist that Europe must first deliver on its promises to reduce tariffs on American goods.

Digital Regulations at the Center of Dispute

The US argues that Europe’s Digital Markets Act and digital service taxes unfairly target American tech giants. These rules, introduced last year, require companies like Apple to make devices compatible with third‑party accessories and impose levies on large digital platforms.

Lutnick told Bloomberg Television:

“It is very, very important that they understand our digital companies and reconsider their digital regulations to be more inviting to our big firms.”

Political Context

Many US tech firms had hoped for stronger backing against European digital rules following Donald Trump’s re‑election. Unlike the Biden administration, which left disputes largely to the companies themselves, Trump is seen as more willing to challenge EU policies directly.

EU’s Response

European Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič reiterated that the bloc’s digital regulations are not discriminatory and remain non‑negotiable.

“This is not aimed at American companies,” he said, stressing that the EU intends to uphold its competition framework.

Location: United States

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