The US government has taken steps to protect American companies and innovators from overseas extortion and unfair fines and penalties. In a memorandum, the President’s administration outlines its policy to counter discriminatory tax and regulatory practices by foreign governments.
Foreign countries have increasingly imposed digital services taxes, regulations, and other measures that harm American companies. These measures limit cross-border data flows, restrict US streaming services, and charge network usage fees. The US government has determined that these practices violate American sovereignty, offshore jobs, and national security interests.
To address this issue, the administration will take responsive actions against foreign governments that impose unfair fines and taxes on US companies. The Secretary of the Treasury, Commerce, and Trade Representative will work together to identify discriminatory trade practices and recommend actions to counter them.
The policy focuses on protecting American intellectual property, freedom of speech, and political engagement from hostile foreign regulators. The administration will investigate and take action against countries that require or incentivize the use of US companies’ products or services in ways that undermine these values.
This policy aims to repair the harm caused by unfair foreign practices and restore balance in international trade. The US government is committed to defending American companies, workers, and national security interests from one-sided, anti-competitive policies and practices of foreign governments.
Source: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/02/defending-american-companies-and-innovators-from-overseas-extortion-and-unfair-fines-and-penalties