President Donald Trump issued a stern 10% tariff warning to countries supporting the BRICS alliance, targeting those adopting what he called anti-American policies. Speaking through social media, Trump declared that no exceptions would be made for nations siding with the growing bloc, which now includes major players like China, Russia, India, and several new members.
At the BRICS summit in Brazil, leaders openly criticized US trade practices and tariffs and called for reforms in global governance. Their joint statement emphasized concerns over rising protectionism, particularly from the United States.
The bloc’s expansion, which recently welcomed countries like Egypt, Iran, and the UAE, reflects a push to represent the interests of the Global South. President Lula da Silva of Brazil likened BRICS to the Cold War-era Non-Aligned Movement, reinforcing the group’s commitment to multilateralism.
Meanwhile, Trump ramped up pressure on trade partners ahead of deals initially set for July 9. Officials confirmed that the new tariffs would take effect starting August 1. Trump emphasized that any country aligning with BRICS’ anti-US stance would face an immediate 10% tariff increase.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed the timeline, saying letters would be sent to several nations by Monday. These letters would outline updated tariff terms if deals remained unresolved.
The US has finalized agreements with Vietnam and the UK, but a tax dispute over British steel imports remains unresolved. Trump defended the tariff policy to protect American industries and restore manufacturing strength at home.
The BRICS bloc, representing over half the world’s population, also called for the protection of Iran’s nuclear facilities and voiced support for Palestinian rights. Questions remain about the bloc’s internal unity, but its diplomatic reach is expanding.
