Under the theme “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,” the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6–7, 2025, promises a historic first in its expanded format of 11 full members and 10 partners.
Brazil’s Dual Priorities
Since assuming the BRICS presidency on January 1, 2025, Brazil has zeroed in on two main goals: deepen ties among Global South nations and push for fairer global governance. To achieve this, it has outlined six core areas:
- Global and public health systems
- Trade, investment and financial collaboration
- Climate action
- Governance of artificial intelligence
- Security architecture reform
- Institutional development of the BRICS mechanism
Spotlight on Trade and Investment
The summit unfolds amid rising trade tensions, highlighted by recent U.S. “reciprocal tariffs.” Representing nearly half the world’s population and over 30% of global GDP, BRICS members have decried these unilateral measures for undermining the WTO-led system and disrupting supply chains.
In April, BRICS foreign ministers warned that arbitrary tariffs threaten economic stability. They called on all parties to defend free trade, support emerging markets and uphold multilateral rules.
Central to the discussion are the Partnership for the New Industrial Revolution (PartNIR) and the 2030 Strategy for the BRICS Economic Partnership—initiatives designed to boost intra-BRICS trade and reduce vulnerability to external shocks.
What’s Next?
As delegates gather in Rio, attention will focus on how these strategies translate into real commitments. Will BRICS reshape global trade norms and strengthen the voice of developing economies? This summit could chart a new path toward a more balanced world order.
Reference(s):
What to expect from BRICS summit in Brazil: A preview of priorities
cgtn.com
