New York, July 8 (IANS): Former US President Donald Trump has warned of imposing an additional 10% tariff on countries aligning with BRICS, accusing the group of attempting to “undermine” American interests.
In a statement shared on Truth Social late Sunday, Trump declared,
“Any country aligning themselves with the anti-American policies of BRICS will be charged an additional 10 per cent tariff.”
Though Trump did not specify which policies he deemed anti-American, his spokesperson Karoline Leavitt explained on Monday that the former president views BRICS as a collective trying to weaken US global influence.
“He’s closely monitoring the situation, which is why he made the statement himself,” she added.
The announcement came shortly after BRICS leaders issued a joint declaration criticizing unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures that distort global trade, a clear reference to US trade practices—though not named directly. The statement also opposed Western protectionist policies disguised as environmental actions and condemned military strikes on Iran, again without naming the US.
Trump has previously expressed concern over BRICS exploring the idea of launching a common currency to rival the US dollar in global trade. However, India rejected that proposal, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar clarifying that India supports the US dollar as the anchor of international stability.
Despite the strong rhetoric, tariff letters sent on Monday to South Africa and Malaysia did not cite BRICS membership as the reason. South Africa was warned of a 30% tariff effective August 1, while Malaysia faces a 25% tariff. Similar tariffs were also announced for Japan and South Korea, and 12 more countries are expected to receive similar notices.
Leavitt emphasized that these measures are part of ongoing trade negotiations, extending the previous deadline of July 10 to August 1.
“This delay is again in the best interest of the American people,” she said.
“President Trump’s phone rings off the hook with world leaders wanting to make deals. This administration is focused on ensuring those deals serve the American people.”
As of Monday afternoon, India had not received a formal notice, though seven more countries were yet to be named.
Recent Random Post:
