US President Donald Trump said on July 8, 2025, that the United States will impose a 10% tariff on imports from BRICS nations, including India, Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa, and newer members like Iran and Indonesia. Trump accused BRICS of attempting to undermine the US dollar’s dominance and stated that there would be no exemptions, including for India.
The tariffs are set to take effect from August 1, 2025, amid ongoing trade tensions and broader US tariff expansions on copper, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductors. BRICS leaders, including Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, have strongly opposed these measures, calling them unjust and detrimental to global trade.
Trump’s Tariff Threats and Trade Expansion
During a White House cabinet meeting, Trump declared a 50% tariff on imported copper and hinted at forthcoming tariffs on pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and critical minerals, signalling a broadening of US protectionist policies.
He emphasised that any country in BRICS would face a 10% tariff on their exports to the US, stating, “If they’re a member of BRICS, they’re going to have to pay a 10% tariff… and they won’t be a member long.”
Trump accused the bloc of trying to “degenerate our dollar,” reaffirming his stance that “the dollar is king” and warning that challengers would “have to pay a big price.” These tariffs come as part of a wider strategy to push bilateral trade agreements and protect US industries.
Background and Global Reactions
The BRICS alliance, which collectively accounts for roughly 40% of global GDP and nearly half the world’s population, has been critical of Trump’s tariff policies, arguing they violate World Trade Organization rules. The group recently expanded to include Iran and Indonesia, further complicating geopolitical dynamics.
Brazil’s President Lula, who hosted the latest BRICS summit, condemned the US tariff threats, stating, “We will not tolerate grievances regarding the BRICS summit” and rejecting the US president’s proposals. Meanwhile, other countries like Japan and South Korea are negotiating with the US to soften tariff impacts, highlighting the global economic uncertainty caused by escalating trade tensions.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The imposition of tariffs on BRICS nations risks deepening international trade conflicts and undermining global economic cooperation. The Logical Indian believes that while nations have the right to protect their economic interests, dialogue and diplomacy must prevail over punitive measures that threaten mutual growth and stability.
In a world interconnected by trade and shared challenges, fostering understanding and collaboration is essential to peace and prosperity.
