Trump Threatens Extra 10% Tariff on BRICS-Aligned Countries

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that any country aligning with the "anti-American policies" of the BRICS bloc will face an additional 10% tariff on exports to the United States. The statement, made via his Truth Social account, marks a sharp escalation in his administration’s trade stance as global tensions rise over protectionism and shifting alliances.

“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,” Trump wrote, without elaborating on what constitutes “anti-American policies.” The post has sparked concerns among trade partners and investors as markets await further clarification.

BRICS—originally composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—has expanded significantly since its founding summit in 2009. In recent years, the bloc has welcomed Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. The group now represents over 40% of the world’s population and a growing share of global economic output, increasingly positioning itself as a counterweight to Western influence.

Trump’s tariff warning comes ahead of a looming deadline for updated U.S. trade policies, including broader tariff hikes that could reach up to 70% on certain nations. Analysts say the move could impact global trade flows, particularly for countries with deepening economic ties to BRICS.

The former president’s stance signals a potential return to aggressive tariff strategies that marked his first term, fueling uncertainty for exporters and global markets. Investors are now watching closely for additional policy details and potential retaliatory measures from targeted countries.