US launches probe of France’s planned tech giants tax

Washington: US President Donald Trump has ordered an investigation into France’s planned tax on internet services that will hit American tech giants especially hard, officials said Wednesday. The probe into unfair trade practices could pave the way for Washington to impose punitive tariffs — something Trump has done repeatedly since taking office. And it adds […]

China’s egg prices surge as swine fever boosts demand for chickens

Higher demand for poultry in China after the spread of African swine fever cut supplies of pork has created another problem — shortages of eggs, which have sent prices to the highest level in more than four years. “There are not as many hens as before to lay eggs,” said Jim Huang, chief executive officer […]

France ignores US threats on tech tax

Paris: France won’t back off from its planned tax on companies like Facebook Inc. and Alphabet Inc.’s Google even after the US suggested it may use trade tools against the levy. The French Senate passed a bill on Thursday to impose a three per cent tax on global tech companies with at least €750 million […]

Airbnb escapes sanctions in EU

Luxembourg: Airbnb Inc. has passed a European Union review, and now can enjoy its summer vacation. The online platform was given an ultimatum a year ago to meet EU standards in its terms and conditions and how it presents holiday-home prices, or face a regulatory clampdown. The European Commission said as a result of negotiations […]