Trump Warns of 100% Tariffs on BRICS Nations Over Plans to Abandon U.S. Dollar

Washington, D.C. — Former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again vowed to impose 100% import tariffs on BRICS nations — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — if the bloc moves forward with plans to reduce its dependence on the U.S. dollar in global trade.

In a post shared on Truth Social, Trump declared that the United States would not tolerate any attempt by BRICS countries to develop or adopt an alternative trading currency. He insisted that the group must abandon such initiatives or face what he described as “severe economic consequences,” including steep tariffs and restricted access to the U.S. market.

The former president’s comments come amid growing discussions within BRICS about creating a shared financial framework aimed at decreasing reliance on the dollar in international transactions. Trump emphasized that any effort to undermine the dollar’s global influence would be met with immediate retaliatory measures.

Having previously imposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico during his presidency, Trump suggested that similar actions could be extended to BRICS members if they continue to challenge the dollar’s dominance. His warning underscores rising economic tensions and signals a potential escalation in global trade disputes should these nations proceed with their de-dollarization plans.

Trump Dismisses BRICS Push, Asserts ‘No Chance’ of Replacing the U.S. Dollar

Washington, D.C. – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has brushed off the notion that BRICS nations could undermine or replace the dominance of the U.S. dollar, calling such efforts “impossible” and “pointless.”

In a statement shared on Truth Social, Trump described the dollar as “mighty and irreplaceable” in global trade. “There is absolutely no chance that BRICS will replace the U.S. dollar in international commerce—or anywhere else,” he declared.

His remarks come as BRICS countries — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — continue to explore the creation of an alternative trading currency to reduce reliance on the dollar. Trump, however, reiterated his plan to impose 100% tariffs on imports from any nation that moves away from dollar-based trade. “Any country that tries should say hello to tariffs and goodbye to America,” he warned, underscoring his trademark protectionist stance on global trade.

Trump Revives Tariff Playbook Against BRICS Bloc

Trump’s renewed threats mark a return to his hardline trade strategy that defined much of his first term. During his presidency, he introduced tariffs on multiple countries to curb trade deficits and boost U.S. manufacturing.

In his latest comments, Trump cautioned that countries attempting to sideline the U.S. dollar would face severe economic consequences, including 100% import tariffs and restricted access to American markets. Given that several BRICS members—particularly China—are major exporters to the U.S., these measures could significantly strain economic relations.

For instance, in 2022, the United States imported goods worth over $536.8 billion from China, highlighting the deep economic interdependence that such policies could disrupt.

India’s Delicate Balance in the U.S.–BRICS Currency Dispute

Amid these rising tensions, India is treading a careful line between its participation in BRICS and its strategic partnership with the United States.

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) took a major step in 2022 by allowing international trade settlements in Indian rupees, aiming to reduce dependence on the dollar—particularly after Western sanctions on Russia.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has since advocated for greater financial cooperation among BRICS nations, saying that promoting local currency trade and smoother cross-border payments would strengthen mutual economic resilience. Similarly, in November 2024, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized the “growing importance of settling trade in national currencies” in a shifting global landscape.

India’s position highlights a balancing act — supporting BRICS initiatives for financial independence while preserving its vital economic and strategic ties with the U.S.

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