In a bold escalation of his trade stance, former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a 10% tariff on Nigeria and other countries aligning with BRICS, citing the group’s “anti-American policies.” The move, which has drawn sharp criticism from BRICS leaders, threatens to heighten trade tensions between the U.S. and key developing economies.
Trump made the announcement via his Truth Social platform on Sunday, stating unequivocally: “Any country aligning itself with the anti-American policies of BRICS will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy.”
The BRICS bloc—originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—has in recent years expanded to include Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE, Ethiopia, Iran, and Indonesia. Nigeria became the ninth partner country in January 2025, joining a strategic alliance seen as a counterweight to U.S.-led international institutions.
The decision to penalize Nigeria comes as BRICS leaders convene in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to deepen cooperation and reform global governance structures. The group, now positioning itself as the voice of the Global South, has pledged to promote equitable economic development and climate justice.
In a joint statement, BRICS leaders responded to Trump’s threat, criticizing “unjustified unilateral protectionist measures” and warning that such actions would distort global trade and violate WTO regulations. They emphasized the need for inclusive international economic policies and equitable global cooperation.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, representing Nigeria at the BRICS Summit, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the alliance, stressing that Nigeria will remain a strong advocate for Global South unity and reform of international financial institutions.
“Today, we reiterate our belief in justice, equity, and global economic inclusion,” Tinubu said in a statement by his media adviser, Bayo Onanuga. “Nigeria associates with the vision and objectives of BRICS, and we are committed to fostering cooperation that supports the sustainable development of emerging economies.”
He argued that Africa, while contributing the least to global emissions, bears the brunt of climate change impacts. Tinubu urged for fair climate financing, technology transfer, and a restructuring of global financial systems to reflect the needs of developing countries.
“We are not here to be passive participants in global governance,” Tinubu declared. “Nigeria is taking deliberate steps to align with the global renewable energy transition, strengthen our climate resilience, and build a sustainable economic future.”
The president also highlighted Nigeria’s bold domestic reforms—including the African Carbon Market Initiative and the Great Green Wall project—as strategic contributions to global environmental solutions.
Trump’s move to impose new tariffs on BRICS-aligned countries is expected to have significant implications for Nigeria’s foreign trade and investment environment. Analysts warn that the tariffs could discourage Nigerian exports to the U.S., potentially affecting key sectors such as agriculture, textiles, and raw materials.
Furthermore, Trump’s return to hardline economic nationalism poses a dilemma for countries like Nigeria that are diversifying their foreign partnerships. While Nigeria has historically maintained strong relations with the U.S., its BRICS membership signals a strategic pivot toward multipolar global engagement.
The new tariffs are scheduled to take effect from August 1, 2025, giving countries a narrow window to negotiate exemptions. Earlier in April, Trump had paused implementation of broader tariffs for 90 days to allow trade discussions, a grace period that expires this week.
Trade analysts believe Nigeria will need to leverage diplomatic channels to mitigate the economic fallout while maintaining its position within BRICS. “This is a defining moment for Nigeria’s foreign policy,” said Dr. Chuka Nwokedi, an international trade expert. “The Tinubu administration must strike a careful balance between economic pragmatism and geopolitical realignment.”
As the world awaits COP-30 and other key global summits, Nigeria’s membership in BRICS underscores its aspiration to shape global economic decisions. With its growing population and regional influence, Nigeria is positioning itself as a key player in South-South cooperation and a proponent of alternative development models.
Tinubu’s call for a “new path anchored in fairness and accessible financing” reflects a growing frustration among African leaders over Western-led economic policies perceived as exclusionary.
While Trump’s tariff announcement may rattle markets and raise diplomatic temperatures, it also highlights the urgent need for a recalibration of international economic relations—one that gives emerging economies a stronger voice in global governance.