Trump Warns 10% Tariff for Countries Supporting BRICS Policies
US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning that any country aligning with the BRICS alliance in ways that undermine US interests will face an additional 10% tariff, with no exceptions.
“Any country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS, will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy,” Trump declared on social media.
The BRICS bloc, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, expanded last year to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates — representing over half of the world’s population.
Tariff Deadline Moved to August 1
Originally, the deadline for tariff agreements with countries was set for 9 July, but US officials now confirm the new implementation date is 1 August. So far, the US has only reached trade agreements with Vietnam and the United Kingdom, although key issues — like UK steel tariffs — remain unresolved.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that letters would be sent out Monday detailing updated tariff rates to countries that failed to finalize deals with the US. Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNN:
“President Trump’s going to be sending letters to some of our trading partners saying that if you don’t move things along, then on August 1 you will boomerang back to your April 2 tariff level.”
Tariffs as a Tool for American Manufacturing
Since returning to office in January, Trump has aggressively pursued protectionist trade policies, introducing a range of import taxes that he claims will boost American manufacturing and safeguard jobs.
His sweeping “Liberation Day” tariffs were unveiled on 2 April, but temporarily paused to allow room for negotiation. Now, he appears ready to act.
Tensions with BRICS Intensify
Trump’s warning follows growing criticism from BRICS countries over US trade practices. The alliance recently called for IMF reform and changes to how major global currencies are valued, challenging long-standing US-led economic structures.
With the BRICS alliance pushing to reduce dependency on the US dollar and enhance South-South cooperation, Trump’s move signals escalating economic rivalry.