The ongoing global tensions between the West and the Global South have been an undeniable reality of 2025 so far. Amid that, China is set to lead the BRICS in a trade war with the US as the nation has unveiled a brand new partnership plan for the economic alliance.

Since his election win in November 2024, Trump has targeted the BRICS bloc. Specifically, he threatened 150% tariffs on the alliance amid its ongoing de-dollarization plans. That has cascaded now to a brewing trade war. Subsequently, China has taken its stand, set to lead its economic bloc amid the geopolitical conflict that is bubbling just under the surface.

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BRICS to Faceoff Against US in Trade War: China Lays Out Brand New Plan

The status of the US dollar has become a clear focus for the returning Trump administration this year. Indeed, they have committed to ensuring that the greenback can remain the world’s currency. In that, they have targeted nations that are seeking to change that. Chief among them is BRICS, which China is now set to lead in a trade war with the US.

Specifically, China has recently called for “multilateral cooperation” within the bloc to combat the United States import tax threats, the Global Times has reported. Specifically, China’s international trade representatives and Vice Minister of Commerce, Wang Shouwen, discussed a new BRICS-centered partnership plan.

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“China will establish a China Center for Cooperation on the development of special economic zones in BRICS countries,” Wang announced. Moreover, he noted the first would launch in Hangzhou, located in China’s Zhejiang Province. Wang noted that the center would “serve as a hub for international exchange” and promote greater economic cooperation.

Altogether, the effort was a clear defense against “rising unilateralism and protectionism,” practiced by the US. The last two administrations have embraced the weaponization of the US dollar in different ways. This time, the bloc is looking to take its financial future into its own hands.