President Trump’s latest tariff threat—a 10% penalty on BRICS-aligned nations—is more than economic aggression; it’s a strategic push against de‑dollarization efforts.
BRICS members are increasingly promoting alternative payment systems and diversifying away from the U.S. dollar . The tariff threat is designed to discourage nations from overtly siding with BRICS’ currency club and urges alignment with U.S.-friendly trade terms.
Trump’s move reflects broader administration goals: not only to secure individual trade concessions but also to maintain the strategic integrity of the U.S. economic order.
Commerce Secretary Lutnick confirmed that no exceptions will be made, as letters went out Monday detailing tariffs—effective August 1. This applies pressure not just to BRICS founder members but also expanding partners like Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Iran.
Diplomatically, this move places smaller nations in a difficult position: conform with U.S. trade demands or pursue BRICS-linked economic cooperation and face higher costs.
