Trump's Tariff Tactics Could Boost BRICS Collaboration
By Editor • September 12, 2026 • 1 min read
As the BRICS bloc convenes in New Delhi, the ongoing policies of U.S. President Donald Trump may inadvertently be uniting its members. Known for his confrontational stance towards this coalition, Trump’s administration has consistently threatened tariffs on countries aligning with what he considers anti-American policies.
The potential fallout from such coercive tactics has led to a nuanced shift among BRICS nations, which include Brazil, China, India, and others. While they do not share a singular political ideology, the pressure from Washington has created a unique impetus for economic cooperation among them. As they face tariffs and restrictions, BRICS leaders may find common ground through mutual economic protection against U.S. dominance.
BRICS: A Complex Coalition
The BRICS group consists of 11 countries that represent nearly half of the global population and about 40% of the world's GDP. However, their internal dynamics are complicated, with significant political and economic differences. For instance, recent tensions between Iran and the UAE, as well as a border dispute between India and China, highlight the challenges within the coalition.
Shifting Economic Strategies
Despite these divisions, BRICS nations are actively exploring ways to reduce their reliance on the U.S. dollar. Initiatives such as South Africa’s integration into China's Cross-Border Interbank Payment System and Brazil and China’s burgeoning trade in local currencies are just a few examples of this trend. The New Development Bank, established by BRICS countries, aims to increase financing in local currencies, which could further diminish dependence on U.S. financial systems.
While the dollar remains the dominant global reserve currency, BRICS is not attempting to replace it outright but rather to create alternative pathways for trade and finance. This strategic maneuvering allows member nations to navigate a landscape increasingly defined by U.S. sanctions and tariffs.
Source: www.aljazeera.com
