China Responds to Trump’s 10% Tariff Threat Over BRICS Alignment

China has pushed back against Donald Trump’s recent tariff warning, stressing that the BRICS alliance does not aim to challenge or confront any country, including the United States.

The response came after Trump, in a July 6 post on his social platform Truth Social, threatened a 10% additional tariff on any nation “aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS.” The former president made it clear that no exceptions would be made.

What is BRICS?

BRICS is a group of major emerging economies. Initially formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the bloc expanded in 2024 to include Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran. These 11 countries together represent more than half the global population and a growing share of the world economy.

China: BRICS Is Not a Threat

During a press briefing on July 7, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning responded to Trump’s threat. She said: “BRICS is an important platform for cooperation among emerging markets in developing countries. It advocates openness, inclusiveness, and voluntary cooperation. It is not a bloc for confrontation, nor does it target any country.”

Mao further commented on the trade tension: “On the U.S. tariff hikes, China has made its position clear more than once. Trade wars and tariff wars have no winners, and protectionism leads nowhere.”

Tariff Letters and Trade Talks

Trump also announced that tariff letters or new trade deals would begin rolling out from July 7, marking the end of his previously declared 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs. This could mean significant changes for countries not aligned with U.S. trade goals.

Earlier this year, the U.S. and China reached a limited agreement, which included the easing of some American restrictions and China increasing rare earth exports—critical materials for electronics and defense technologies.