Trump Threatens BRICS Nations with 100% Tariff

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Dec 02, 2024

Above: Donald Trump attends a viewing of the launch of the sixth test flight of the SpaceX Starship rocket on Nov. 19, 2024 in Brownsville, Texas. Image copyright: Brandon Bell/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Imagesstory last updated Dec 02

The Facts

US Pres.-elect Donald Trump on Saturday threatened to impose 100% tariffs on imports from BRICS nations if they attempt to "create a new BRICS Currency" or support any replacement of the dollar in international trade.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: "They can go find another "sucker!" There is no chance that the BRICS will replace the U.S. Dollar in International Trade," adding that, "any Country that tries should wave goodbye to America."

The Spin

Pro-Trump narrative

This approach to trade reflects Trump's broader 'America First' economic policy. The BRICS alliance represents a direct challenge to US economic dominance. It must be prevented from undermining the dollar's global position through the creation of alternative currencies that could help rogue nations like Russia and Iran circumvent Western sanctions.

Anti-Trump narrative

Trump's threat is unrealistic, as massive tariffs would harm US consumers through higher prices and damage crucial international trade relationships. His announcement is more of an opening bid than a promise, as it's unclear if BRICS will create any alternatives to the US dollar, given the significant economic and political differences among member nations.