BRICS has completed two decades as a major platform for emerging economies, evolving from a small grouping of Brazil, Russia, India and China into a much larger geopolitical and economic forum. With India hosting the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi on September 12–13, 2026, the grouping’s growing influence is once again in focus.
What Is BRICS?
The BRIC acronym was coined in 2001 to describe the growing economic importance of Brazil, Russia, India and China. The grouping became a formal platform in 2006, while South Africa joined in 2010, turning BRIC into BRICS.
Over the years, the group has expanded significantly. Today, BRICS has 11 members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
The expanded grouping represents around 49.5% of the world’s population, 40% of global GDP and 26% of global trade, giving it substantial economic and demographic weight.
Why Does BRICS Matter?
BRICS provides emerging economies with a platform to coordinate positions on international economic and political issues. Its agenda covers trade, finance, development, technology, energy, climate change and global governance.
One of its major achievements has been strengthening financial and development cooperation. The New Development Bank was established to finance infrastructure and sustainable-development projects in member countries.
The grouping also seeks greater representation for developing economies in institutions such as the United Nations, International Monetary Fund and World Bank.
Why Is BRICS Important For India?
For India, BRICS is an important part of its strategy of strategic autonomy. New Delhi can engage simultaneously with BRICS, the G20, the Quad and other international groupings while pursuing its own national interests.
India also sees BRICS as an avenue to strengthen its voice on behalf of the Global South. During its 2026 presidency, India has focused on “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” More than 350 meetings and high-level engagements have been organised across 25 Indian cities during the chairship.
Economic cooperation is another major opportunity. India is pushing discussions around easier cross-border payments and has proposed greater interoperability between digital currencies of BRICS countries.
Challenges Ahead
BRICS’ growing membership is also creating challenges. Members have different political systems, economic priorities and foreign-policy positions. Recent tensions between Iran and the UAE have highlighted how difficult consensus can become within an expanded grouping.
For India, the challenge is to ensure that BRICS remains a practical platform for economic development and cooperation rather than becoming defined solely by geopolitical rivalry with Western countries.
As BRICS enters its third decade, its importance will depend not only on its size but also on its ability to deliver concrete outcomes. For India, the 2026 summit provides an opportunity to demonstrate leadership and shape a more inclusive and multipolar global orde