- Donald Trump vows tariffs on Apple if EU imposes digital tax on US firms.
- The EU receives a temporary reprieve as Trump focuses criticism on France.
What happened: Trump threatens tariffs on Apple over EU digital tax plans, singling out France while easing pressure on Brussels
Former US President Donald Trump has renewed hostilities with Apple, threatening to impose tariffs on the tech giant if the European Union moves ahead with digital taxation plans targeting American firms. In comments made during a Fox Business interview, Trump expressed anger at what he described as European efforts to “rip off the United States” via digital levies.
He warned that if countries like France continue with proposed taxes on US digital firms, he would retaliate with tariffs on Apple products manufactured overseas. Trump accused Apple of benefitting from US military protection without contributing fairly in trade terms, stating, “They take advantage of us on trade, and they take advantage on military.”
While France has been singled out, Trump temporarily pulled back from criticising the broader EU, hinting at a strategic pause. This comes as Apple remains in the spotlight for its global operations and tax structure, previously challenged by the European Commission over alleged state aid in Ireland.
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Why this is important
Trump’s threat underscores the escalating geopolitical tensions over the digital economy, especially as the EU continues efforts to tax large US-based technology companies operating across the bloc. The European Commission has backed plans to implement a digital services tax, arguing that tech giants often shift profits to low-tax jurisdictions, depriving member states of revenue.
Apple, a symbol of US tech strength, has previously faced scrutiny from the OECD and regulators over its tax arrangements. Trump’s threat to target Apple could reignite trade tensions that cooled after the Biden administration sought cooperation with Europe on global tax reform.
Industry analysts warn that renewed tariffs could disrupt supply chains and hurt US consumers. Apple manufactures a significant portion of its products in China, meaning tariffs would likely raise prices. Trump’s stance also diverges from current global tax talks, complicating diplomatic efforts. While his comments carry no immediate policy impact, they signal a potential shift if he returns to office in 2025.
