About BRICS

BRICS is a grouping of the world's leading emerging economies. Originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, the alliance expanded in 2024 to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates — with additional partner nations engaging in collaborative dialogue.

Together, BRICS nations represent approximately 45% of the global population, nearly 30% of world GDP, and a significant share of global trade and natural resources. The grouping serves as a platform for multilateral cooperation, South-South dialogue, and reform of global governance institutions.

Since its first summit in 2009, BRICS has established institutions such as the New Development Bank (NDB) and the Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA), developed cooperation mechanisms across dozens of policy areas, and grown into a credible voice for the Global South on the world stage.

India holds the BRICS Chairship in 2026, steering the grouping's agenda under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” This marks India's third time as BRICS Chair, following successful presidencies in 2012 and 2021.