Guan Cha Zhe Wang·2025-09-04 07:59Core Viewpoint - The recent statements from EU officials highlight the deepening trade friction between the US and EU regarding digital economy governance, emphasizing the EU's commitment to its "sovereign" digital regulations [1][2]. Group 1: EU Digital Regulations - The EU's Digital Services Act and Digital Markets Act are characterized as "sovereign legislation" and will continue to be implemented, covering all digital platforms operating in the EU market [1]. - The EU's regulatory framework applies to any company providing services within the EU, regardless of its headquarters location, indicating a strong stance on jurisdiction [1][2]. - The EU has identified major tech companies like Google, Amazon, Apple, Meta, Microsoft, and ByteDance as "gatekeepers," with potential fines of up to 20% of global revenue for violations [2]. Group 2: US-EU Trade Relations - The US has expressed concerns over the EU's digital regulations, with President Trump warning of high tariffs and export restrictions on countries implementing discriminatory policies [1][2]. - The EU's digital service tax, which targets revenues from digital services, has been adopted by several European countries with rates typically set between 2% and 3% [1][2]. - The EU has indicated that the digital service tax is a separate issue from US-EU trade agreements, suggesting potential retaliatory measures if trade negotiations fail [3]. Group 3: Broader Implications - The divergence in digital governance reflects deeper economic philosophical differences, with the US favoring minimal regulation and the EU advocating for high standards of protection [2][3]. - The ongoing digital regulatory dispute may complicate the already slow progress of the US-EU trade framework agreement, which faces legislative hurdles [3]. - The struggle for digital governance authority signifies a broader reallocation of power in the global digital economy, with significant implications for international digital governance [3].