Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reignited trade tensions by warning that any country aligning with the so‑called “anti‑American policies” of the BRICS nations would face an additional 10% tariff on top of existing U.S. import levies.
Announcing his position via Truth Social on July 6, 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.”
He did not specify which BRICS policies he considered anti‑American, prompting questions about how broadly this could apply.
Trump’s announcement came as the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and recently expanded members) were convening in Rio de Janeiro. His comment coincided with the end of a 90‑day pause on previously announced U.S. tariffs, originally set in April, that were due to take effect after July 9. In the meantime, the implementation was postponed to August 1 to allow for additional trade negotiations.
Trump’s administration indicated that notices with country‑specific tariff rates would be sent out starting early that week, with the new tariffs becoming effective on August 1 unless agreements were reached.
BRICS leaders strongly rebuffed the U.S. accusations. Brazilian President Lula dismissed concerns of acquiescence to any “emperor,” asserting BRICS seeks a multipolar and cooperative world order—not confrontation.
Markets responded sharply. On July 7, the Dow Jones fell nearly 1%, the S&P 500 dropped 0.79%, and the Nasdaq declined around 0.9%, largely driven by jitters over the broader tariff plan and additional threats aimed at BRICS countries.
