China has launched an antitrust investigation into Google, citing suspicions that the US search giant has violated Chinese antimonopoly laws. The move comes as part of a broader response to US tariff increases, which includes retaliatory tariffs and export controls.

The investigation, announced by China's State Administration for Market Regulation, may impact Google's dealings with Chinese companies, despite its search and internet services being blocked in China since 2010. While details of the probe are scarce, it was announced mere minutes after President Trump's 10 percent tariffs on Chinese goods took effect.

The Chinese government has also introduced additional levies against select US goods, including a 15 percent tariff on coal and natural gas products, and a 10 percent tariff on crude oil, agricultural equipment, larger cars, and pickup trucks. Furthermore, China has announced export restrictions on certain mineral elements, such as tungsten, tellurium, ruthenium, molybdenum, and ruthenium, which are critical to modern infrastructure and technology production.

The escalation of trade tensions between the US and China has significant implications for the tech industry. The tariffs and export restrictions may disrupt global supply chains, affecting the production of technology products and services. The antitrust investigation into Google, in particular, raises concerns about the company's ability to operate in China and its relationships with Chinese businesses.

President Trump has stated that his administration plans to speak with Chinese President Xi Jinping "probably over the next 24 hours" to discuss a potential trade deal. However, no pause has been announced for the tariffs against China, and Trump has warned that tariffs will be "very, very substantial" if a deal cannot be reached.

The ongoing trade tensions and antitrust investigation into Google highlight the complexities of the US-China trade relationship and its far-reaching consequences for the tech industry. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Google and other US tech companies will be affected by the escalating tensions.

In the broader context, the antitrust investigation into Google is a significant development in the ongoing trade tensions between the US and China. It underscores the complexities of the relationship between the two nations and the potential risks and opportunities for US tech companies operating in China.