Trump Warns 10% Tariff on BRICS Aligned Nations – Is India the Exception?

U.S. President Donald J. Trump has once again stirred global economic debates with a controversial warning targeting the BRICS alliance. In a viral social media post, Trump declared that any country aligning with what he termed the “anti American policies” of BRICS would face an additional 10% tariff on exports to the United States.

While this statement seems like a sweeping economic threat, experts and global analysts are asking a key question: Is Trump hinting at an exception for India?

What Did Trump Say?

In a bold post from his verified social media account, Trump stated:

“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!”

This statement has sparked diplomatic concern among members of the BRICS bloc Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa as well as the newly invited members like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Iran, and Ethiopia.

Understanding Trump’s BRICS Tariff Warning

Trump BRICS tariff discussions are rooted in the former President’s longstanding belief in protectionist economic policy. Known for his aggressive trade measures against China during his first term, Trump appears to be signaling a broader stance if re-elected in 2024 this time targeting BRICS.

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The Trump BRICS policy reflects his perception that the bloc is moving towards creating a parallel global economic system aimed at reducing dependency on the U.S. dollar and weakening American global dominance.

By announcing a 10% tariff BRICS policy, Trump is effectively drawing a red line in the global trade landscape. But where does India stand?

Donald Trump on Truth

India’s Role in BRICS: Strategic Yet Neutral?

India is a founding member of BRICS and actively participates in the group’s multilateral meetings. However, India’s position within BRICS is markedly different from that of China and Russia, both of whom have been vocal critics of U.S. foreign policy.

While China and Russia have pushed for de-dollarization, India has maintained a more balanced foreign policy, collaborating with both Western powers and BRICS countries. India has strategic partnerships with the U.S. in defense, technology, and energy often being described as a key democratic ally in the Indo-Pacific.

This nuanced positioning leads to the pressing question: Could India be the quiet exception Trump alludes to despite his claim of “no exceptions”?

Global Reactions to Trump’s Tariff Threat

Trump’s BRICS tariff threat has triggered mixed reactions globally:

Supporters:

• Applaud Trump’s effort to curb what they see as the rise of anti-American economic coalitions.
• Believe this pressure tactic will deter allies from embracing BRICS expansionist goals.

Critics:

• Warn of a global trade war if the U.S. imposes blanket tariffs on BRICS members.
• Say such a policy could hurt American consumers and manufacturers due to retaliatory tariffs.
• Many are also questioning whether the Trump BRICS policy would stand up to WTO scrutiny and U.S. Congress review.

India: Target or Exemption?

While Trump’s statement doesn’t name any country specifically, India’s ambiguous position has become a hot topic:

• India has avoided joining the BRICS de-dollarization agenda.
• India did not support Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, despite refusing to condemn it outright.
• India is a Quad member (with the U.S., Japan, Australia) and a major defense partner of the U.S..

Given these realities, many analysts believe India could be treated differently, despite the “no exceptions” line. But Trump’s unpredictability leaves room for doubt.

Expert Opinions: Is Trump Targeting India?

Dr. Samantha Cross (Brookings Institution): “Trump’s economic nationalism is back. But India is not like China or Iran. It’s more likely he’s using broad language but will carve out exemptions quietly for India.”

Rajiv Bansal (Indian Foreign Affairs Commentator): “India’s BRICS membership has always been strategic, not ideological. Trump may understand this especially given the strong U.S.-India ties formed during his own presidency.”

Jason Miller (Former Trump Advisor):> “The statement was about anti-American behavior, not BRICS membership per se. India isn’t anti-American. That’s the distinction.”

So, while the Trump BRICS tariff threat was clear, the interpretation of India’s alignment remains gray.

What Does This Mean for Global Trade?

If Trump follows through on this 10% tariff:

• India may seek clarification from U.S. officials, pushing to maintain its trade privileges.
• China and Russia could double down on BRICS as a counterbalance, escalating tensions.
• U.S. allies in BRICS like Brazil, India, and South Africa will feel increasing pressure to choose between Washington and multipolar alignment.

The Trump BRICS policy could reshape global alliances, with trade being used as a geopolitical lever.

Conclusion: Is India Safe From Tariff Threat?

Despite Trump’s bold assertion of “no exceptions,” India’s unique strategic diplomacy and close defense and economic cooperation with the U.S. could provide a behind the scenes exemption.

Yet, as the Trump BRICS tariff narrative gains momentum in the lead up to the 2024 U.S. elections, India must tread carefully. Whether it emerges as an exception or a casualty of Trump’s hardline economic policies will depend on how New Delhi positions itself in the evolving BRICS vs. West narrative.