Trump Imposes Additional 10% Tariff on Nigeria Over BRICS Ties
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that Nigeria will be among countries hit with an additional 10% import tariff for aligning with what he described as the “anti-American policies” of BRICS, the global economic bloc led by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
The announcement, made on July 6, 2025, via Trump’s official Truth Social account, has sent shockwaves through diplomatic and economic circles, especially as Nigeria was only formally recognized as a BRICS “partner country” earlier this year.
“Any Country aligning themselves with the Anti-American policies of BRICS will be charged an ADDITIONAL 10% Tariff. There will be no exceptions to this policy,” Trump stated.
Nigeria in the Crosshairs
Sources within the White House confirmed that Nigeria, along with Argentina and Saudi Arabia, is among the first nations targeted under this new trade directive. This tariff will apply in addition to existing U.S. duties on imported goods from these countries.
Trump’s latest tariff decision is part of a broader trade strategy aimed at discouraging alliances with blocs he views as undermining U.S. interests. The White House is expected to send out formal “tariff letters” to affected countries by July 9, with enforcement starting August 1.
Economic Concerns for Nigeria
Economists warn that the new tariff could negatively impact Nigerian exports to the U.S., including agricultural products like cocoa, cashew, and sesame, which are already navigating global price volatility.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Trade has yet to release an official response, but analysts say this move could strain Nigeria–U.S. trade relations and affect ongoing negotiations for bilateral investment.
The BRICS Backdrop
Nigeria’s increasing involvement in BRICS has been seen as a strategic pivot toward multipolar trade and investment relationships. The country has attended multiple BRICS-related meetings and is expected to co-chair a BRICS development roundtable later this year in Johannesburg.
While BRICS leaders have welcomed Nigeria’s participation, the U.S. under Trump’s leadership views the bloc as a direct challenge to Western-led economic influence.
What Comes Next?
Diplomatic observers are watching closely to see how Nigeria responds. Some insiders suggest that retaliatory tariffs or expedited trade talks with the European Union and China may be explored as alternatives.
With global tensions rising over trade and alignment, Nigeria’s next steps will be critical in navigating this diplomatic storm.
