Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has called a virtual BRICS meeting on Monday, September 8, to discuss U.S. trade tariffs and strengthen multilateral cooperation within the bloc.
Key Context
The US, led by President Trump, has imposed varying tariffs on BRICS nations, complicating efforts to present a united front. Brazil now faces tariffs up to 50%, following threats connected to the trial of former President Bolsonaro. Lula’s goal is to keep the meeting focused on cooperation and avoid turning it into an anti-US event.
Details of the Summit
Leaders from India, China, and Russia—Narendra Modi, Xi Jinping, and Vladimir Putin—will join Lula, following recent bilateral meetings as BRICS nations weigh steps to reduce reliance on the US dollar and respond to American trade policies. The different tariff rates applied to each country make forming a joint statement challenging.
Outlook
Lula seeks to promote constructive engagement among BRICS, strengthen multilateral ties, and defend national interests in the face of growing trade tensions driven by US tariffs.
Update: PM Modi to Skip BRICS Trade Summit; Jaishankar to Represent India
September 8, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will not attend the BRICS Trade Summit, scheduled for 4:30 pm IST on Monday. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will represent India virtually. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin will also join online. Hosted by Brazil’s President Lula da Silva, the summit will focus on US tariffs and promoting a multilateral world order. China’s foreign ministry said Xi will deliver a major speech. At a recent SCO meeting, India stressed diversifying exports, reducing dependence, and strengthening supply chains to boost trade amid high US tariffs.
Lula and Xi Push for BRICS Unity Against US Tariffs
At the BRICS summit, Brazil’s President Lula da Silva called tariffs a form of “blackmail,” while China’s Xi Jinping said trade wars are hurting the global economy. Both leaders urged BRICS countries to protect fair trade and push for more representation of developing nations in global institutions. The meeting came after the US imposed 50% tariffs on Brazilian and Indian goods, with Trump accusing BRICS nations of being “anti-American.” Leaders from Russia, South Africa, Egypt, Iran, Indonesia, UAE, and Ethiopia also joined, stressing cooperation in trade, finance, and technology to face external challenges. Xi also reaffirmed China’s support for the Belt and Road Initiative.
