A major diplomatic flare-up is underway between the United States and BRICS nations after President Donald Trump issued a sharp warning on international trade. In a message posted to his Truth Social account, Trump threatened to impose an additional 10% tariff on any country that aligns with the BRICS alliance—a group that continues to gain economic and political power across the globe.
China, one of the most influential BRICS members, responded immediately and forcefully, saying it opposes the use of tariffs as a tool of coercion. The clash signals growing tensions between the U.S. and the bloc of emerging nations trying to reshape the world order.
What Did President Trump Say?
In his statement, President Trump declared:
“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.”
This bold warning came just as BRICS leaders wrapped up their foreign ministers’ summit in Brazil on July 6–7. There, the bloc issued a statement criticizing unilateral military and economic actions—indirectly referencing recent U.S. and Israeli military activity in Iran, and trade sanctions imposed by Washington.
Trump’s message clearly positions BRICS as a challenge to U.S. leadership—and his administration is responding with economic pressure.
China’s Response: “Tariffs Serve No One”
In a press conference held on July 7, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning addressed Trump’s comments directly:
“We oppose tariffs being used as a tool to coerce others. The use of tariffs serves no one’s interest.”
She emphasized that the BRICS alliance is not aimed at any third party, and described it as a force for fairness, inclusivity, and development in the international system. Mao also reiterated that China supports an open global economy and opposes trade protectionism in any form.
In essence, Beijing is calling Trump’s threat both unjustified and harmful to global stability.
What is BRICS, and Why Does It Matter?
The BRICS bloc, formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is quickly becoming one of the most influential alliances in global geopolitics. As of 2025, the group has added Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Indonesia, expanding its economic reach and political clout.
Together, BRICS countries now account for:
- Over half the world’s population
- A growing share of global GDP
- Increasing efforts to reduce dependency on Western financial systems, especially the U.S. dollar
At their summit in Brazil, the foreign ministers reaffirmed their shared goals of:
- Promoting multipolarity (a world not dominated by any single power)
- Opposing unilateral sanctions and military interventions
- Enhancing trade cooperation among member nations
Why Trump’s Tariff Threat Is a Big Deal
President Trump’s tariff threat could impact dozens of countries and potentially disrupt global trade. If implemented, the 10% tariff would make it more expensive for BRICS-aligned countries to export goods to the U.S., including:
- Electronics and textiles from India
- Oil and metals from Russia, Iran, and the UAE
- Machinery and manufacturing goods from China and Brazil
This move signals a clear shift back to Trump’s signature “America First” trade policy, which heavily relies on tariffs and pressure tactics to reshape international economic behaviour.
China’s Strategic Position
For China, this moment is more than just a trade dispute—it’s a test of its global leadership role.
Here’s what China is doing:
- Defending BRICS as a peaceful, cooperative bloc
- Calling out U.S. behaviour as economic bullying
- Reaffirming its long-term goal of building an alternative world financial structure—less dependent on the U.S. dollar and Western-led institutions
China also knows that any strong U.S. actions will likely push other BRICS members closer together, which could ultimately backfire on Washington’s efforts to isolate the group.
What Happens Now?
Trump said his administration would begin sending official warning letters to foreign governments starting Monday, July 8 at 12 PM EST. These letters will formally notify nations that U.S. trade policy is changing—and that cooperating with BRICS will carry financial consequences.
Here’s what to watch in the coming days:
- Will India and Brazil respond diplomatically—or publicly push back?
- How will U.S. companies doing business in BRICS countries react?
- Will BRICS members accelerate plans to trade in their own currencies?
- Could we see a full-scale global trade war?
Final Thoughts
This isn’t just about tariffs—it’s about the future of global power.
President Trump’s aggressive stance is meant to protect American interests. But BRICS nations argue that the world needs a more balanced, inclusive economic system—one where developing countries are not punished for working together.
The outcome of this standoff could define the next phase of international trade, diplomacy, and economic cooperation.
One thing is certain: The world is no longer just watching the West. Power is shifting—and everyone, including the White House, knows it.