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China Launches Antitrust Probe Against Google: What You Need to Know

Investigation of Google by China’s SAMR: Anti-Monopoly Laws in Focus

The State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) in China has initiated an official investigation into Google on suspicions of anti-monopoly law violations within the country.

The SAMR announced in a formal statement, "Due to the suspicion of Google’s infringement of China’s Anti-Monopoly Law, the government has commenced an investigative process against the company."

Historically, China has restricted access to various Google services and platforms, including Gmail, Google Maps, Google Play, and YouTube. These actions stem from Google’s reluctance to adhere to the government’s requests regarding the management of politically sensitive content online. However, the Google Android operating system remains operational in China, serving as a critical platform for many domestic smartphones.

U.S. Customs Duties Increase Amid Trading Tensions

In a related development, U.S. President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order imposing additional tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. The new tariffs will see a 10% duty on Chinese imports while imposing a 25% tariff on goods entering from Canada and Mexico.

In response, the Customs Tariff Committee of the Chinese State Council has announced that additional tariffs will be levied on energy imports from the United States starting February 10. The tariffs include a 15% fee on coal and liquefied natural gas, alongside a 10% duty on oil, agricultural machinery, large passenger vehicles, and small trucks.

Summary of Tariff Changes

Region Good Type Tariff Rate
China Imports from the U.S. (energy) 15% on coal and LNG
China Imports from the U.S. (various) 10% on oil, ag machinery, large vehicles, small trucks
U.S. Imports from China 10%
U.S. Imports from Canada and Mexico 25%

The unfolding dynamics of trade relations and regulatory scrutiny illustrate the increasing complexity of international business operations, particularly for industry giants like Google.

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