President Donald Trump has issued a warning of additional tariffs for any country that supports the policies of the BRICS group, a forum of 11 countries. Trump stated that any country aligning with BRICS’ policies would face a 10% tariff with no exceptions. While Trump did not specify what constitutes “anti-American” policies, he had previously cautioned against creating a new BRICS currency or supporting any alternative to the U.S. dollar. This threat coincided with the announcement of upcoming tariff deals and discussions with other nations, signaling progress on trade agreements as the deadline for pausing Trump’s tariffs approaches. Trump has already revealed deals with the United Kingdom, China, and Vietnam.
The BRICS summit began in Brazil, with attending leaders signing a declaration on global cooperation. The threat of additional U.S. tariffs loomed over the proceedings as the summit continued. BRICS, comprised of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, was established in 2001 to facilitate collaboration among emerging economies and less developed countries on trade, security, and diplomacy. Over the years, the group expanded to include other nations, totaling 11 countries. BRICS aims to challenge the dominance of the U.S. in global power dynamics and promote a multipolar world order.
BRICS accounts for a significant portion of global commercial exchanges and GDP. The leaders expressed concerns about unilateral tariff measures and emphasized the role of the global south in shaping future trade and power dynamics.
ge, particularly amidst substantial international challenges such as escalating geopolitical tensions, economic slowdown, rapid technological advancements, protectionist measures, and migration issues,” the group stated.
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How have BRICS leaders reacted to the threat of tariffs from Trump?
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied on Monday that BRICS is working to undermine other nations. Peskov emphasized that the Kremlin is aware of Trump’s recent tariff threats related to “anti-American policies.”
“We have indeed noted President Trump’s statements, but it is crucial to highlight that what sets a group like BRICS apart is that it comprises countries with shared approaches and a mutual worldview on cooperation based on their own interests,” Peskov expressed. “The collaboration within BRICS has never been nor will ever be aimed against any other countries.”
Additionally, China’s foreign ministry voiced opposition to the use of tariffs as a means to coerce others. In a statement, spokesperson Mao Ning said, “China has been unequivocal in its stance against U.S. tariff increases. Trade wars and tariff disputes benefit no one. Protectionism is not the solution.”
South Africa’s trade ministry spokesperson, Kaamil Alli, emphasized that they are awaiting formal communication from the U.S. regarding their trade agreement. Alli assured that their discussions have been positive and constructive, reiterating that they are not anti-American.
Following the conclusion of the BRICS summit in Brazil, Indonesia’s coordinating minister of economic affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, is scheduled to visit the U.S. on Monday. It is anticipated that tariffs will be a key topic of discussion once they arrive.
Trump had previously threatened BRICS with tariffs, stating in November after his election victory that he would impose a 100% tariff on BRICS nations should they distance themselves from the U.S. dollar.
What is the current status of Trump’s tariffs and when will they come into effect?
When Trump announced his “reciprocal” tariffs on April 2, he established a 10% base rate for most countries, with some facing higher rates. Amid widespread concern, fears of a recession, and opposition from global leaders, Trump granted a 90-day extension to most countries, postponing the implementation of all but the 10% tariff until July 9.
This extension allowed for negotiations, with varying degrees of success. In May, Trump accused the European Union (E.U.) of dragging out discussions on social media, claiming talks were at a standstill. He threatened a “flat 50% tariff” on the E.U. starting June 1. However, after a conversation with Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, Trump backed down and agreed to revert to the July 9 deadline.
During a press briefing on Sunday, Trump stated his anticipation of finalizing agreements with “most countries” by July 9, suggesting that progress would be achieved through either written commitments or formal deals. U.S
The increased tariffs are set to take effect in August, as agreed upon. Lutnick mentioned that they will come into effect on August 1, with the President currently finalizing the rates and negotiations. This three-week extension gives countries a bit more time to get ready for the tariffs that have been agreed upon with President Trump. If by August, countries have not reached an agreement with the U.S., Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that they will return to the tariff levels from April 2. For further inquiries, please email us at letters@time.com.
