The BRICS grouping risks losing relevance unless it shifts its focus from political symbolism to practical economic cooperation, says Shishir Priyadarshi, President of the Chintan Research Foundation.
The expanded BRICS alliance, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa and several newer members, was created to give emerging economies a greater voice in global governance. However, the grouping now faces pressure to demonstrate tangible benefits amid a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
Global trade tensions, supply chain disruptions, sanctions and growing competition between major powers have increased calls for reforms to international institutions that many developing countries argue no longer reflect current economic realities.
Priyadarshi says that BRICS should avoid positioning itself primarily as an anti-Western organisation, warning that such an approach could deepen internal divisions and undermine cooperation among members that maintain extensive ties with Western economies.
India, which is expected to play a leading role during its presidency, has consistently pursued a policy of strategic autonomy, balancing relations with the United States, Europe, Russia and countries across the Global South. Priyadarshi explains that New Delhi is likely to favour a reform-oriented approach focused on representation and economic resilience rather than geopolitical confrontation.
The group’s future influence may depend less on summit declarations and more on its ability to address practical barriers to trade and investment among member states, he adds.
Areas frequently highlighted include customs procedures, regulatory differences, payment systems and logistics coordination. Digital infrastructure is also emerging as a key area of cooperation.
India’s digital identity and payment systems have attracted interest from developing economies, prompting discussions about whether similar frameworks could be expanded through BRICS partnerships.
Energy security, critical minerals and supply chain resilience are expected to feature prominently on the group’s agenda as countries seek to secure resources needed for the global energy transition. Competition for access to lithium, rare earth minerals and battery technologies has intensified in recent years.
BRICS has already established institutions including the New Development Bank and other financial cooperation mechanisms aimed at increasing economic collaboration among member states.
The grouping now accounts for more than a quarter of global economic output and represents a significant share of the world’s population. However, questions remain about how effectively its diverse membership can pursue common objectives.
