BRICS sharply criticized unilateral measures, including sanctions, tariffs, and non-tariff restrictions introduced by various states. Members of the bloc argue that such actions distort trade processes and contradict established rules of world trade.
This statement was perceived as being directed against the United States, which began increasing import duties under the administration of Donald Trump. It is also noted that few countries have utilized the dispute settlement mechanism of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Furthermore, BRICS called for the restoration of the WTO's dispute settlement mechanism, as the US has blocked all appointments to this organization. Additionally, the bloc, which accounts for a quarter of global trade turnover, criticized the protectionism motivated by environmental issues practiced by the European Union.