The EU-US Trade and Technology Council met for the first time in Pittsburgh on 29 September 2021 with the aim of coordinating approaches to key global technology, economic and trade issues. In parallel, the EU and the US have set up a Joint Technology Competition Policy Dialogue that will focus on developing common approaches and strengthening cooperation on competition policy and enforcement in the tech sectors.

Digital, trade and competition are priorities clearly targeted by the Commission. This is also the case in other jurisdictions such as the United States, South Korea, India and China, which are taking measures to restrict the supremacy of Big Tech.

As for taxation, cooperation with third countries is crucial. The Trade and Technology Council augurs well. However, the European Parliament will be co-legislator in some of the key proposals in these areas, such as the Digital Markets Act and the proposal on foreign subsidies.

1. How does the Commission intend to involve the European Parliament in this dialogue with its US counterparts?

2. Would the Commission consider making MEPs observers on forums such as the ICN or OECD in order to acquire better knowledge for the purposes of drafting legislation in this area?

Answer given by Executive Vice-President Vestager on behalf of the European Commission here.