Summary President Trump condemns EU's antitrust fine against Google and announces a Section 301 investigation into alleged targeting of American companies.
(Reuters) – US President Donald Trump on Friday sharply criticised the European Union over its decision to fine Alphabet-owned Google, announcing that Washington would launch a Section 301 investigation into what he described as unfair treatment of American companies.
Trump's comments came a day after the European Commission imposed a total fine of €890 million ($1 billion) on Google for violating European Union rules designed to curb the market power of major technology companies.
In a post on social media, Trump said the United States would "immediately initiate a 301 Investigation into the practice of 'ROBBING' American Companies," referring to Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act of 1974.
He further warned that the European Union would face significant consequences, describing the bloc's actions as "illegal and highly unethical."
The European Commission announced the penalties on Thursday, saying Google had breached EU competition rules aimed at ensuring fair practices in the digital marketplace.
