China Unveils Measures Against Google, Other U.S. Firms

China has unveiled a series of retaliatory measures against several major U.S. firms, including a high-profile investigation into Google.

These new actions come as the U.S. enforces a 10% tariff on all Chinese imports, prompting Beijing to strike back with a mix of legal actions, sanctions, and tariffs aimed at bolstering its position in the trade dispute.

Key Measures and Actions:

Anti-Monopoly Investigation into Google: China’s State Administration for Market Regulation has launched an anti-monopoly investigation into Google, accusing the tech giant of violating the country’s competition laws. While specifics of the case have not been disclosed, this move signals China’s readiness to challenge the dominance of major foreign firms within its borders. Google, which has faced similar scrutiny in other parts of the world, is now in the crosshairs of China’s regulatory authorities.

“Unreliable Entity” List Expansion: China has also added two more companies, PVH Corp (the parent company of Calvin Klein) and Illumina, to its “unreliable entity” list. This list identifies foreign businesses that are seen as engaging in activities detrimental to Chinese interests. Being placed on this list could subject these companies to significant trade restrictions, including potential fines and barriers to conducting business in China.

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New Tariffs on U.S. Products: In retaliation for the U.S. tariffs, China has introduced its levies on various American goods. Notable among these are 15% tariffs on coal and liquefied natural gas, as well as a 10% tax on crude oil, agricultural machinery, and certain vehicles. These tariffs are set to go into effect on February 10, 2025, marking a significant escalation in the trade standoff.

These actions by China reflect the growing strain in U.S.-China relations, with both sides now locked in a complex tit-for-tat exchange of trade barriers. The anti-monopoly probe into Google, in particular, highlights China’s ongoing push to assert its regulatory power over major foreign technology companies operating within its market.

The addition of new tariffs will undoubtedly further disrupt the already fragile global supply chains and potentially dampen international investment in both nations. The Chinese government’s aim seems clear: by targeting specific U.S. firms and implementing economic measures that pressure key industries, it seeks to both protect its own companies and retaliate against what it sees as U.S. unfair trade practices.

As the trade war continues to evolve, both China and the U.S. are expected to closely monitor the impact of these latest moves. With global markets reacting to the news, many experts predict that the international business community will brace for more uncertainty in the coming months. This is expected to shape future policies on global trade, digital governance, and corporate regulations.