French president Emmanuel Macron threatened retaliation against American digital giants after Donald Trump warned against imposing duties on EU products. The French leader considered hitting the digital sector as a consequence to American trade threats.
According to businessinsider.com.pl, Macron discussed the problem during a Wednesday gathering with the government, pointing to the EU trade deficit in the service sector with the US. "Europe should not regulation out the request to look at the digital sector" - said the French president, as the Politico portal reports.
Trump's threats exacerbate tensions
Trump threatened on Monday with 15% duties on EU countries that would introduce regulations or taxes on US digital platforms. He besides added that restrictions could cover EU countries' access to advanced technologies from the US.
According to banker.pl, the von der Leyen agreement contains a maximum limit of 15% of customs duties for EU exporters for most goods to the US. However, French ministers Marc Ferracci and Benjamin Haddad called any of the provisions of this agreement "unproportional" and suggested the anticipation of European digital taxes.
French-German Key Conversations
Macron plans to discuss a digital strategy with German Chancellor Friedrich Merzem during his Thursday visit to France. French-German consultations may set a fresh direction for EU trade policy towards the US.
According to pb.pl, Macron previously criticized the EU for insufficient firmness during negotiations with Washington. The French president expressed discontent with the negotiating approach, suggesting that the EU did not make adequate "fear" during talks with the American administration.
Commissioner tries to soften
The French Commissioner for manufacture Stephane Sejourne tried to calm the mood, explaining that Trump's statements are only "intentions" for now. However, he added that if the threat becomes a reality, the agreement already concluded will request to be reviewed.
The EU maintains a surplus in the trade in goods with America, but Macron underlines the request for a balance besides in the field of digital services. The answer to the question of whether the French calls for responses will find support in Europe can give a series of forthcoming diplomatic talks.
Sources used: "businessinsider.com.pl", "bankier.pl", "pb.pl", "Politico"
Note: This article has been edited with the aid of Artificial Intelligence.
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