A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Monday emphasized that BRICS is centered on openness and mutual benefit, and is not aimed at any specific country. This response came after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened a 10% additional tariff on BRICS countries, accusing them of pursuing “anti-American policies.”
Trump, in a social media post cited by CNBC, declared that any country aligning with BRICS’ “anti-American” stance would face a 10% tariff, without exceptions.
At a press briefing, spokesperson Mao Ning clarified that BRICS is a collaborative platform for emerging and developing nations that promotes inclusiveness and cooperation. She emphasized that the group does not target or oppose any country.
On the issue of tariffs, Mao reiterated China’s position that trade and tariff wars produce no winners. She stressed that protectionism is not a viable path and warned against the use of tariffs as a coercive tool.
When asked how China would respond if the U.S. imposed further tariffs, Mao reaffirmed China’s consistent opposition to trade wars, stating that arbitrary tariffs harm all parties involved and should not be used as instruments of pressure.
Zhou Mi, a senior researcher at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, commented that the U.S.’ reliance on tariffs reflects a misguided belief in their effectiveness. He argued that such protectionist measures risk undermining global economic cooperation.
Zhou added that these policies contradict the broader global movement toward economic integration and inclusivity.
The 17th BRICS Summit, held in Rio de Janeiro from July 6 to 7, adopted a declaration rejecting unilateral, punitive, and discriminatory protectionist actions. The document warned that such moves violate international law and the principles of the WTO, and could disrupt global trade and supply chains.
The declaration further expressed concern over the growing use of unilateral tariffs and non-tariff barriers, noting that they threaten global economic stability and deepen inequalities.
Zhou concluded that BRICS, based on mutual respect and shared development goals, has become increasingly attractive to other developing countries. He noted that BRICS seeks inclusive growth rather than confrontation, and its rise should not be seen as a threat by any nation.
He added that the U.S. views BRICS cooperation as a challenge to its global influence, but the grouping’s true purpose is to support sustainable development and prosperity for emerging economies.
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