‘Any country aligning with anti-American policies of Brics … ‘: Trump’s big tariff warning; ‘no exceptions’
US President Donald Trump lashed out at Brics nations, warning of an “additional 10% tariff” on any country aligning with the group’s “anti-American policies.” He made it clear there would be “no exceptions.” The remarks followed India’s signing of the Brics declaration that condemned US tariff measures.“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. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” Trump said in a post on Truth Social on Monday.Also read: Brics backs India line on terror & UNSC reforms, slams tariffsHe also said that the US would be sending letters on tariff deals to the countries “starting 12:00 P.M. (Eastern), Monday, July 7th.” “I am pleased to announce that the UNITED STATES TARIFF Letters, and/or Deals, with various Countries from around the World, will be delivered starting 12:00 P.M. (Eastern), Monday, July 7th. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” he informed.The Rio Declaration on Sunday saw Brics nations voice deep concern over the growing use of unilateral tariff and non-tariff measures that distort trade and violate WTO norms. Though clearly aimed at the Trump administration, the statement avoided naming the US directly, as some members were uneasy with doing so.The declaration also said that imposing unilateral coercive measures violates international law, and warned that actions like unilateral economic sanctions have wide-ranging harmful effects.India and the US began talks on a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) in February, aiming to wrap up the first phase by autumn (September-October). In the meantime, both sides are working toward an interim trade deal. India has set firm boundaries on sensitive areas such as agriculture and dairy as negotiations over the interim trade pact with the US move forward.Also read: India-US mini trade deal coming soon? These sectors may be excluded as Donald Trump’s tariff deadline nearsEarlier this year, Trump had threatened Brics nations, including India, of imposing 100% tariffs on trade in case the bloc moved forward with plans to replace the US dollar. “If the Brics nations want to do that, that’s okay, but we’re going to put at least a 100% tariff on the business they do with the United States,” he had said.
