France may have made tricky discussions with America even more difficult
you, don’t tax me, tax that fellow behind the tree.” Historically, this rhyme has poked fun at the tax-shy American public. Today it reflects complaints against the French government, which on July 25th introduced a tax on digital services. American companies such as Amazon, Facebook and Google are protesting that they are being treated like the fellow behind the tree. President Donald Trump is itching to hit back. Unilateralism is a language he can understand.
Not surprisingly, the Trump administration has taken umbrage. It has begun an investigation into the French tax under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 . On August 19th eight officials heard the companies’ formal complaints. “We cannot absorb this expense,” claimed Amazon’s representative. The administration seems almost certain to end up finding fault with the French. America could then complain to the World Trade Organisation. But Mr Trump is more likely to fight unilateralism with unilateralism, by raising taxes on French individuals or firms, or by imposing tariffs. The president appears particularly keen to raise duties on French wine.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
France starts inquiry on whether Epstein committed any crimes in FranceFrance has opened a preliminary inquiry to see if late U.S. financier Jeffrey Ep...
Read more »
Boris Johnson takes Brexit renegotiation plea to hard-line France'The point can't be to exit Europe and say 'we'll be stronger,' before in the end, becoming the junior partner of the United States,' Macron said.
Read more »
France and Britain aim to show unity on Iran as G7 loomsFrance and Britain aimed to present a united front on the issue of Iran - where ...
Read more »
The Latest: France taking 150 of the 356 migrants from shipMADRID (AP) — The Latest on the plight of migrants arriving in Europe (all times local): 1:20 p.m. France says it will take 150 of the 356 migrants disembarking from a humanitarian...
Read more »
France watching Kashmir rights, Macron tells ModiFrance concerned about 'interests and rights of the civilian populations' in disputed Kashmir, French President Emmanuel Macron tells visiting Indian PM Narendra Modi, as India's lockdown on Kashmir enters 19th day.
Read more »
France is giving unilateralism a goA new tax on digital services has led to protests from the likes of Amazon, Facebook and Google
Read more »