Trump targets Brics-aligned countries with fresh tariff threat

Donald Trump has warned that any country siding with the Brics alliance against US interests will face an additional 10% tariff, in the latest escalation of his protectionist trade strategy.

The US president posted the threat on social media over the weekend, making it clear there would be “no exceptions” to the policy. US officials later confirmed the new tariffs will come into effect on 1 August.

Brics, originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, has recently expanded to include countries such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The group now represents more than half the global population and is increasingly vocal in calling for reforms to international institutions, including the IMF.

Brics leaders, meeting in Rio de Janeiro, hit back at US tariffs in a joint statement, warning they are fuelling global uncertainty. The summit also addressed geopolitical flashpoints, condemning last month’s joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran and pushing for diplomacy over confrontation.

Trump’s warning follows months of tariff announcements aimed at boosting US manufacturing. While the UK and Vietnam have reached early-stage trade agreements with Washington, a deal on UK steel tariffs remains unresolved.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent both confirmed the tariff rollout date as 1 August, with letters going out to affected countries this week.

This isn’t Trump’s first clash with Brics. Last year he threatened 100% tariffs if the bloc pursued a rival currency to the US dollar. This time, the focus is broader, with trade, security and global influence all now in the mix.

Source: Kofi Acquah