In response to new U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods, China has launched an investigation into Google over alleged unfair business practices, signaling rising tensions between the two economic giants. The probe, led by China’s State Administration for Market Regulation, comes as a countermeasure after former U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a 10% tax on Chinese imports. Despite Google’s core services being blocked in China since 2010, its advertising business remains active in the country, making it a key target. Alongside the investigation, Beijing has retaliated with higher taxes on American coal, oil, and agricultural equipment while restricting U.S. companies like Calvin Klein owner PVH Corp. and gene sequencing firm Illumina. Additionally, China has tightened export controls on tungsten-related materials, further escalating the trade conflict. As both nations continue to impose restrictions on each other, global markets brace for the impact of this deepening economic standoff.
