Under U.S. President Donald Trump’s reciprocal trade policy, the original five BRICS member countries account for the highest U.S. tariffs globally. India and Brazil are facing the highest tariffs of 50%, while China follows with a tariff of 34%, down from 145% earlier in the year. This infographic details the U.S. reciprocal tariff rates for each BRICS+ member and the sectors that are impacted.

While BRICS does have a wise agenda, backed by considerable unity, it is not in a strong position to garner the world’s support for it. The fissures within the G7, the tensions between the U.S. and Europe, and the unilateralism of Washington leave little room for BRICS to develop an international consensus on the issues agreed at the recent Rio Summit.

BRICS is undergoing a major transformation—expanding its membership, redefining its global role, and navigating geopolitical tensions. As the group prepares for the Rio Summit in July 2025, key challenges include integrating new members, reforming multilateral institutions, and balancing economic ambitions with strategic unity. With India set to chair in 2026, the bloc’s evolving identity will shape its global influence.

The Galwan crisis, pandemic and the Ukrainian war have weakened the BRICS’ credibility, a forum that has played a pivotal role in articulating the case for reformed multilateralism. Beyond grandiose rhetoric and vested interests, these five nations need to first infuse the grouping with internal solidarity and enhance mutual trust for peace, stability and prosperity in the Global South.