EU Strives to Shield Digital Rules in US Trade Negotiations

The European Union is working to protect its digital regulations from US scrutiny as they finalize a trade deal. Disagreements over 'non-tariff barriers' have delayed a joint statement. The EU's Digital Services Act, aimed at regulating tech giants and ensuring online safety, remains a contentious issue.

The European Union is making efforts to prevent its digital regulations from being targeted by the United States as both parties negotiate the final aspects of a trade deal formalized last month, according to the Financial Times.

Disputes over 'non-tariff barriers,' which include EU's digital rules, have caused delays in the joint statement, as reported by the newspaper. Both the European Union and US officials have yet to comment on the issue.

Originally expected soon after EU and US presidents reached the deal in July, the joint statement is delayed partly due to issues around the EU's Digital Services Act. This law aims to ensure safer and fairer online environments by urging tech companies to manage illegal content actively.

(With inputs from agencies.)