‘We do not seek confrontation’: China responds to Trump’s threat to Brics; opposes ‘tariffs being used as a tool of coercion’

China has pushed back against US President Donald Trump’s threat to impose an additional 10 percent tariff on Brics nations, saying the bloc is not seeking confrontation and warning that tariff measures serve no constructive purpose.Responding to Trump’s remarks, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Monday, “The use of tariffs serves no one,” and reiterated Beijing’s opposition to using tariffs as a means of political pressure. “We oppose tariffs being used as a tool to coerce others,” the ministry added.The statement comes amid renewed rhetoric from Donald Trump, who said that his administration would consider additional tariffs targeting the Brics group—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newly added members like Egypt and the UAE.The remarks come after Trump issued a sharp warning on his Truth Social platform, saying: “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!” The US president’s post followed India’s endorsement of a Brics declaration that criticised US-led tariff regimes. Trump’s comments signalled a possible return to aggressive trade policies if re-elected. Beijing stressed that Brics—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and newer members such as Egypt and the UAE—focuses on cooperation and inclusive development, not rivalry. “Brics is not about confrontation but building a more balanced and inclusive global order,” the foreign ministry said.