On July 7, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced via Truth Social that he would impose a 10% tariff on countries supporting the BRICS economic bloc. This announcement came after a meeting of BRICS leaders in Rio de Janeiro.
BRICS, comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, represents approximately half the world's population and 40% of global economic output. The bloc immediately criticized the U.S. tariffs, citing concerns over unilateral trade measures.
BRICS members expressed "serious concerns" about the tariffs, deeming them incompatible with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. The bloc also criticized protectionism, referencing the EU's anti-deforestation measures affecting Brazilian agricultural products. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated negotiations with the EU were progressing.