Former US President Donald Trump has issued a warning to countries, including Australia, regarding proposed legislation aimed at regulating American tech companies. This comes as the Australian government moves to implement a ban on social media access for children under 16, alongside measures requiring platforms like Facebook to compensate local publishers for their news content.
In a statement on his social media platform, Trump expressed his intent to retaliate against nations implementing digital taxes or regulations that he believes target American technology businesses. He proclaimed that such actions could lead to significant tariffs on exports from those countries to the US, as well as restrictions on sensitive technologies.
The response follows efforts from major tech companies to lobby against Australia’s forthcoming legislation, with Google threatening legal action over the lack of exemption for YouTube. Despite this, the Australian government remains resolute in promoting what they describe as landmark social media laws aimed at protecting minors.
This issue echoes recent developments in Canada, where a similar regulatory approach was abandoned, yet Trump still imposed a hefty tariff of 35%. Nonetheless, Australian officials have reaffirmed their commitment to proceed with their planned social media restrictions regardless of external pressures.
The Assistant Treasurer responsible for the News Bargaining Incentive, Daniel Mulino, was contacted for further comments on the matter.
Interestingly, several high-profile tech executives have previously supported Trump’s presidency, with major donations and participation in his inauguration, highlighting a complex relationship between government and tech industries.