China rejects US tariff threat over BRICS ties

New Delhi, Jul 7: China on Monday pushed back against US President Donald Trump’s threat to impose an additional 10% tariff on countries supporting what he called the “anti-American policies” of BRICS, asserting that the grouping is based on openness and does not target any country.

Responding to a media query during a press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning stressed that BRICS is “an important platform for cooperation among emerging markets and developing countries,” guided by the principles of inclusiveness, mutual benefit, and non-confrontation.

“It does not target any third party,” Mao added. Reiterating China’s longstanding position, Mao said, “There are no winners in trade wars. We have always opposed the use of tariffs as tools of pressure or coercion. Arbitrary tariff measures serve no one’s interests.”