BRICS condemns EU carbon tax
BRICS environment ministers have formally opposed the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, labeling it a protectionist trade barrier. The group argues that such measures unfairly penalize developing nations and hinder their efforts to address climate change.
Why it matters
This conflict highlights the growing tension between global climate policy and international trade, specifically impacting major exporters like India.
BRICS countries on Tuesday (August 18, 2026) opposed what they described as “unilateral, punitive, discriminatory and protectionist” climate measures, including the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms (CBAMs), while calling for a significant increase in international funding to help developing countries adapt to climate change.
The positions were contained in the joint statement adopted at the 12th BRICS Environment Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, held under India’s chairship. The Ministers specifically said that carbon border measures such as CBAMs could “undermine developing countries' efforts to address climate change and build resilience”.
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