Britain is likely to be spared next round of Trump tariffs

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, September 2, 2026

The U.S. government plans to launch a Section 301 investigation targeting the European Union over its digital regulations but is expected to exclude the United Kingdom from new tariffs. This move highlights escalating trade tensions over tech industry rules and could shape future international policies on regulating large technology companies.

The United Kingdom is expected to avoid new tariffs in the latest phase of U.S. trade actions targeting European regulations on American technology companies, according to officials involved in the matter. President Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to initiate an investigation under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 aimed primarily at the European Union, following recent fines imposed on U.S.-based tech giants under the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA).

The investigation is anticipated to commence within weeks and could lead to additional tariffs targeting the EU for what the U.S. government views as unfair trade practices. A Trump administration official indicated that the probe may extend beyond the EU but did not specify other countries on the list. Sources close to the discussions confirmed that the UK is currently not under investigation, although pressure to repeal its own digital tax regime, the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCCA), is expected to continue.

The EU’s DMA has resulted in significant fines for companies like Google, which was recently penalized €890 million for anti-competitive behavior. Following this, Trump threatened to "immediately initiate a 301 Investigation" to address what he described as the "robbing" of American companies. While no formal investigation was launched at that time, U.S. officials have since refocused their trade efforts after resolving legal obstacles stemming from a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated blanket tariffs on major economies earlier this year.

Launching the Section 301 investigation would establish a detailed timeline and specify potential tariff rates. However, U.S. authorities may choose to delay imposing tariffs during negotiations with affected parties. A similar probe into the UK’s tech taxation, begun toward the end of Trump’s first term, has not resulted in tariffs thus far.

Representatives from the European Commission emphasized the EU’s sovereign right to regulate economic activity within its borders while highlighting the importance of collaboration with the U.S. on digital issues. They underscored that the digital economy is a significant driver of growth, employment, innovation, and transatlantic trade. The EU expressed readiness to engage in open dialogue to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation on digital regulatory frameworks.

The British government reiterated the benefits of its trade agreement with the U.S., describing it as a source of certainty for businesses and a protector of jobs across the country. Officials stated that no new tariffs have been applied to UK exports following recent U.S. trade announcements and stressed the continuing positive impact of the bilateral trade deal.

Meanwhile, several countries have enacted or are considering legislation similar to the UK’s DMCCA, which allows authorities to fine large technology firms a percentage of their global revenues. The outcome of the U.S. investigation and associated trade measures could influence broader international approaches to regulating major tech companies in the coming months.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.