Trump Threatens 10% Tariff on India Amid BRICS Trade Tensions
President Donald TRUMP escalated trade tensions with India, warning of a potential 10% tariff during remarks on Tuesday. The threat follows his earlier suggestion of progress on a trade deal, as reported by Bloomberg. Trump singled out BRICS nations—including India—as "Anti-American," just days after the bloc's summit in Brazil condemned "trade-distorting tariffs." Brazil and South Africa publicly rebuked the comments, while India remained silent, signaling its delicate balancing act between BRICS alliances and U.S. relations.
Indian officials downplayed concerns, emphasizing no plans to abandon the U.S. dollar or support a unified BRICS currency. Anonymous sources clarified that local currency discussions aim solely to mitigate banking and forex risks. Diplomat P. Kumaran confirmed no tariff talks occurred during Prime Minister Modi's Brazil visit, underscoring India's cautious diplomacy.