On July 7, former US President Donald Trump announced that countries aligning with BRICS’ so-called anti-American policies will face a 10 percent tariff. He posted the warning on Truth Social, stating there will be “no exceptions.” The list includes India, China, Brazil, Russia, South Africa, and newer BRICS members like Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. He added that “tariff letters” would start going out the same day at noon Eastern time.
Trump did not clearly define which policies qualify as anti-American. But his message pointed directly at the growing influence of BRICS, which recently expanded its global presence. He said the move is meant to protect American workers and industries. This is the latest sign of Trump’s push for aggressive economic nationalism, especially as he campaigns for the 2024 election.
This statement has raised alarms in global markets. Stocks dipped in Asia and the dollar saw minor weakening. For countries like India and Saudi Arabia, the threat adds pressure to balance their BRICS ties with US trade relations. If Trump returns to power, this tariff threat could quickly become official policy, possibly leading to new trade tensions.
