The Trump administration is holding off—for now—on imposing a new 10% tariff on members of the BRICS economic bloc, but could move forward if any of the countries pursue what are deemed “anti-American” policy actions, according to a source familiar with the discussions.
President Donald Trump issued a warning late Sunday, stating that the U.S. would target nations that align themselves with policies of the BRICS group—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and recent additions including Indonesia—with additional tariffs.
“If any policy decisions are taken that are clearly anti-American, the 10% tariff will be applied,” the source told Reuters, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.
Trump’s comments, posted on Truth Social, drew swift responses from BRICS member states, many of which denied that the group’s actions were aimed at the United States or its interests.
The statement also comes at a critical time, as countries like India and Indonesia are in the midst of last-minute trade negotiations with the U.S. ahead of a July 9 deadline, when higher tariffs are set to take effect.
The potential move underscores growing tensions between Washington and the expanding BRICS alliance, which the Trump administration views with increasing suspicion.Tools