国际观察｜美欧数字监管冲突升级 欧战略自主空间遭挤压

Core Viewpoint - The conflict between the US and EU over digital regulation is escalating, with the US accusing the EU of unfair practices against American tech companies and using tariffs as leverage to demand regulatory concessions from the EU [1][4]. Group 1: US-EU Trade Relations - Following a trade agreement in July, economic tensions between the US and EU have not subsided, with the US imposing a 50% tariff on over 400 steel and aluminum products from the EU in August [2]. - The EU has enacted a series of enforcement actions against American tech companies under the Digital Services Act and Digital Markets Act, including a €2.95 billion antitrust fine against Google in September [2]. - The US has linked digital regulation to steel and aluminum tariffs, with US Commerce Secretary suggesting that the EU must adjust its tech regulations to receive tariff reductions [3]. Group 2: Digital Sovereignty vs. Digital Hegemony - Observers note that the US is using tariff threats to curb the EU's digital regulatory expansion, aiming to maintain its dominance in the global digital industry [4]. - The EU asserts that its digital regulations are a matter of sovereignty and should not be subject to trade negotiations, emphasizing its right to legislate independently [4][6]. - The EU's strategic autonomy is under pressure, as the US's tariff strategy targets the EU's traditional industries, which are already facing challenges from rising energy costs and green transitions [6]. Group 3: Future Implications - The linkage of tariffs and digital regulation creates a dilemma for the EU, as concessions on digital regulation could provoke political backlash, while a firm stance may lead to greater trade impacts [6]. - Analysts suggest that the US's approach increases its negotiating leverage, as the EU's need for tariff relief is more urgent than the US's need for regulatory relaxation [6]. - The EU's pursuit of strategic autonomy is complicated by its reliance on the US for security and economic cooperation, indicating limited strategic space for the EU [7].