EU's Digital Laws Face US Pressure as Trump's Trade Policies Loom
The EU's digital laws are under scrutiny as US trade policies, under the Trump administration's second term, may impact them. The European Commission has been reviewing regulations, while investigations into tech giants' compliance have been delayed. This has raised concerns about the EU's commitment to its legal framework for tech companies.
Experts have warned that US trade policies could influence EU's digital laws. The European Commission has been considering rolling back regulations, including tech, environmental, and social protections, citing 'competitiveness'. Meanwhile, investigations into tech companies' compliance with EU laws have been delayed.
The US Trade Representative's office has proposed a dialogue with the EU on implementing the Digital Markets Act (DMA). However, JD Vance, a US politician, has threatened to withdraw US support for NATO if the EU regulates Elon Musk's X. This has added tension to the situation.
The European Commission has publicly reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing EU's legal framework for tech companies. Svea Windwehr, co-chair of the nonprofit organization D64 – Center for Digital Progress, has been vocal about this. However, the Commission has stalled its investigation into X's non-compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA). This delay, amid trade talks, could lend legitimacy to the argument that these acts are non-tariff barriers to trade.
Tech CEOs, such as Apple's Tim Cook and Meta's Mark Zuckerberg, have complained to the Trump administration about EU tech regulation. They asked for intervention. In response, civil society leaders, Members of the European Parliament, and Member States have urged the European Commission not to delay or weaken enforcement of the DSA and DMA.
The future of EU's digital laws hangs in the balance as US trade policies and political pressure from tech giants challenge the EU's commitment to its legal framework. Stakeholders await the European Commission's next move, hoping for a balance between competitiveness and regulatory protection.
