On July 6, President Trump announced that any country supporting BRICS’ “anti-American” policies would face an extra 10% tariff — no exceptions. The warning came as the BRICS summit opened in Rio de Janeiro, where members issued a statement criticizing U.S. unilateral tariffs. BRICS Slams U.S. Trade Approach The bloc rejected “unjustified unilateral protectionist measures”, calling them a threat to global trade, WTO rules, and economic equality. Trump's Reaction: Vague and Risky Analyst Stephen Olson sees Trump’s threat as a direct response to the BRICS criticism. But with no clear definition of “anti-American,” the policy leaves countries guessing — adding uncertainty and risk to global trade. August 1: U.S. Tariffs Take Effect Aside from the new threat, existing U.S. tariffs will go live August 1 after a 90-day grace period. They apply to countries without trade deals. Letters with exact rates and terms are now being sent. BRICS Shifts Toward Global South Leadership Now expanded to 11 members, BRICS represents key emerging economies and energy exporters. Members also condemned strikes on Iran, signaling deeper alignment beyond trade. Analysts say BRICS is aiming to challenge Western dominance, especially by reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar. China Rejects Tariff Threat On July 7, China firmly opposed the use of tariffs as a coercive tool, stating that arbitrary trade actions benefit no one — and reaffirmed its resistance to pressure through economic means. 10% Tariffs Add Pressure, Even If Conditional According to Reuters, the U.S. won’t apply the 10% tariffs immediately, unless BRICS members actively oppose U.S. interests. Conclusion: The threat is conditional, but it adds more tension to an already unstable global trade landscape.
