China has dismissed U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat to impose an additional 10% tariff on countries aligning with the BRICS bloc, saying the alliance is not aimed at provoking confrontation or undermining the United States.
Trump’s remarks, made during and after the recent BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro, triggered international concern about renewed tensions in global trade.
The summit, which gathered leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, emphasized a commitment to multilateralism and fair economic practices.
But Trump, in a strongly worded post on his Truth Social platform, labeled BRICS’ position as “anti-American” and warned of economic consequences for any country joining or siding with the group.
“Any country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% tariff,” Trump wrote. “There will be no exceptions.”
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In response, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning clarified at a press briefing on Monday that the BRICS group does not seek to challenge the United States or promote hostility. “Trade and tariff wars have no winners,” she said. “Protectionism is not the way forward.”
She further emphasized that BRICS stands for openness and collaboration. “It advocates inclusivity and win-win cooperation,” Mao stated.
“The bloc is an important platform for cooperation between emerging markets and developing countries. It does not engage in bloc politics or camp confrontation.”
China’s remarks come as Trump’s administration ramps up its pressure on trading partners, with a July 9 deadline looming for countries to sign revised trade agreements.
The U.S. president has pledged to send up to 15 tariff warning letters this week, escalating concerns over a new wave of economic protectionism.
Observers have noted that Trump’s rhetoric represents a broader strategy to assert American dominance in global economic affairs ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
By painting BRICS as a counterforce, Trump appears to be reinforcing his “America First” agenda.
BRICS, originally formed to provide a platform for fast-growing economies, has increasingly become associated with efforts to reduce reliance on the U.S.-dominated global financial system.
In recent years, the group has taken steps to deepen financial integration, including discussions around a shared payment system and reduced dependence on the U.S. dollar.
Despite this, China insists the bloc is not a threat to any country. “We call on all nations to focus on cooperation and development, not confrontation and division,” Mao concluded.
The Guardian
