【环球财经】美欧数字监管冲突升级 欧战略自主空间遭挤压

Core Viewpoint - Recent tensions have arisen between the US and EU regarding digital regulation, with the US accusing the EU of unfair practices against American tech companies and using tariffs as leverage to demand concessions from the EU [1][2]. Group 1: US-EU Trade Relations - The US imposed a 50% tariff on over 400 steel and aluminum products from the EU in August, while criticizing the EU's increasing digital regulations on American tech firms [2]. - The EU has taken enforcement actions against American tech companies, including a €2.95 billion antitrust fine against Google and ongoing investigations into Amazon and Microsoft regarding their cloud services [2][4]. - US Secretary of Commerce has linked digital regulation to steel and aluminum tariffs, suggesting that the EU must adjust its tech regulations for the US to consider lowering tariffs [3][4]. Group 2: Digital Sovereignty vs. Economic Interests - The US aims to maintain its dominance in the global digital industry by pressuring the EU to relax its digital regulations, which the EU views as a matter of sovereignty [4][5]. - The EU insists on its right to legislate digital regulations independently, with officials stating that these regulations are non-negotiable and part of their sovereign rights [4][5]. - The EU's strategic autonomy is being challenged as the US uses tariffs as leverage, creating a dilemma for the EU between maintaining digital sovereignty and protecting its economic interests [5][6]. Group 3: Future Implications - The linkage of tariffs and digital regulation may complicate future trade negotiations, as the US adopts a "cross-issue" negotiation strategy that could embed digital regulation conditions in any trade discussions [5][6]. - The EU's need for tariff reductions may lead to political backlash if concessions are made on digital regulations, while a firm stance could result in greater trade impacts and deepen transatlantic rifts [6].