Trump Slams BRICS as ‘Anti-American’, Threatens Fresh 10% Tariffs on Allies Trade Rhetoric

The geopolitical tensions between the United States and the BRICS alliance have deepened, with U.S. President Donald Trump launching a fresh attack on the group and threatening new tariffs. In a strongly worded message on his social platform, Trump described BRICS policies as "anti-American" and warned that any nation supporting the group's agenda could face an additional 10% tariff on exports to the U.S.

The BRICS bloc, initially formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has seen rapid expansion over the past year. Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the UAE, and Indonesia have since joined the grouping, bringing its total membership to ten. Together, these nations account for nearly half of the global population and contribute over 35 per cent of the world's economic output.

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Tensions Rise Over Dollar Alternatives

One of the key triggers behind this growing rift is the shift among BRICS nations towards reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar for global trade. This movement accelerated after Washington blocked Iran and Russia from accessing the SWIFT international payments network, prompting several nations to seek alternatives.
Russia and China, in particular, have ramped up trade using their local currencies, fuelling concerns in the U.S. about a gradual weakening of the dollar's global dominance.

China Rejects Confrontation Claims

In response to Trump's remarks, China reiterated that BRICS is not intended to fuel geopolitical divisions. "The group promotes openness and cooperation among emerging economies," said Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Monday. She dismissed the idea that BRICS is working against U.S. interests, adding that trade wars serve no one's benefit.
“Protectionism is not the solution. There are no winners in tariff wars,” she stated.

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More Tariff Moves on the Horizon

Trump’s latest comments come as he prepares to send tariff notices to up to 15 countries that, according to him, are undermining American trade interests. He has also indicated that previous high tariff rates, introduced during his earlier term, could return if nations refuse to agree to new trade arrangements.

At a recent BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, leaders from the group criticised Washington's tariff policies, prompting Trump to escalate his warnings.

Conclusion

As BRICS expands its footprint and the U.S. threatens stricter trade measures, global markets face a period of heightened uncertainty. As major economies stake out competing positions, the coming months could see greater economic friction, impacting trade, diplomacy, and investment worldwide.